Prepare to embark on a journey into the realm of unparalleled comfort food with our recipe for The Easiest Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese. This culinary masterpiece not only promises indulgent creaminess and cheesy perfection but also eliminates the stress of constant monitoring. Say goodbye to stovetop stirring and hello to a slow cooker sensation that will redefine your mac and cheese expectations. Join us as we unlock the secrets to crafting a dish that’s effortlessly delicious and destined to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- 3 cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray for greasing the slow cooker
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Macaroni Magic Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Slow Cooker Prep Generously grease the slow cooker with cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup later.
Step 3: Cheesy Ensemble In a large mixing bowl, combine the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Colby Jack cheeses. Toss to create a delightful medley of cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Creamy Symphony In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, whole milk, evaporated milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 5: Layering Brilliance Layer one-third of the cooked macaroni in the greased slow cooker, followed by a generous portion of the mixed cheeses. Repeat this process, creating delicious strata until all the macaroni and cheese are layered in the slow cooker.
Step 6: Custard Unison Pour the whisked eggs over the layered macaroni and cheese, allowing them to seep into the crevices and bind the ingredients.
Step 7: Slow Cooker Set and Forget Set the slow cooker to low and allow the macaroni and cheese to cook for 3-4 hours. This slow-cooking magic ensures a velvety texture and thorough blending of flavors.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve Once the slow cooker has worked its magic, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the Easiest Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese warm, reveling in the anticipation of the creamy delight that awaits.
Cook Notes:
- Experiment with different cheese combinations to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
- For a flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
Variations: Bacon Lover’s Delight: Introduce crispy bacon bits between the layers for a smoky, savory twist.
Vegetarian Extravaganza: Add sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious variation.
Buffalo Bliss: Incorporate buffalo sauce into the cheese mixture for a tangy kick that elevates the dish to new heights.
Keto Version: For those embracing a ketogenic lifestyle, swap out traditional elbow macaroni for cauliflower or broccoli florets. Substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond milk and use a combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for the cheesy base. Adjust the quantities to align with your keto macronutrient goals.
Low-Carb Version: Reduce the carb content by opting for low-carb pasta alternatives such as shirataki noodles or spiralized zucchini. Use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour to create a low-carb roux for added creaminess.
In the realm of comfort food, The Easiest Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese stands tall as a beacon of simplicity and indulgence. This recipe not only delivers on flavor but also provides the convenience of a set-and-forget approach. Whether you’re a busy parent seeking a fuss-free family dinner or a culinary enthusiast in search of a satisfying dish, this slow cooker mac and cheese is a game-changer. Embrace the ease of slow cooking and savor every bite of this creamy, cheesy sensation.
