Prepare to indulge in the epitome of comfort food with our Slow Cooker Bacon Mac & Cheese recipe. This dish combines the rich creaminess of cheese with the savory goodness of bacon, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, potluck, or simply craving some hearty goodness, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the cheesy, bacon-infused bliss!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 12 ounces evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 pound of cooked bacon, chopped
Instructions:
- Cook the Macaroni: Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked macaroni and set it aside.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Grease the insert of your slow cooker with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, whole milk, evaporated milk, melted butter, sour cream, lightly beaten eggs, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped bacon. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared slow cooker insert, spreading it out evenly.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook the mac and cheese on low heat for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is heated through.
- Serve: Once the mac and cheese are cooked to perfection, serve it hot, garnished with additional chopped bacon if desired. Enjoy the creamy, indulgent goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor of your mac and cheese. Gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack can add unique twists to the dish.
- Spice It Up: Add a kick of heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mac and cheese mixture.
- Crunchy Topping: For added texture, top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before serving. Bake in the oven for a few minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Substitute the elbow macaroni with cauliflower florets or shirataki noodles to reduce the carb content. Replace the whole milk and evaporated milk with heavy cream or almond milk to lower the carb count further.
- Low Carb Option: Similarly, opt for low-carb pasta alternatives such as zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Use full-fat cheese and sour cream, and skip the breadcrumbs topping to keep the dish low in carbohydrates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use pre-cooked bacon for this recipe? Yes, pre-cooked bacon works well in this recipe. Simply chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the mac and cheese mixture before cooking.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to cook, simply transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and proceed with the instructions.
- What if I don’t have a slow cooker? If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can bake the mac and cheese in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Bacon Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this creamy, cheesy dish is sure to hit the spot. With its simple preparation and irresistible flavor, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of homemade mac and cheese with a bacon twist. Enjoy every cheesy, bacon-filled bite!
