Looking for the right strategy to make Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese? This step-by-step information will assist you in creating a creamy, tacky, and mouthwatering dish effortlessly. If you are a fan of wealthy, indulgent consolation meals, then this gradual cooker mac and cheese is about to change into your go-to recipe for household gatherings, potlucks, and holidays. The better part? It requires minimal prep time, and the slow cooker works its magic to ship an irresistible cheesy dish that is excellent every time. Let’s dive into this extremely straightforward and creamy mac and cheese recipe!
Recipe Card (Structured Data):
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 6-8
- Calories: 400-500 per serving (estimate)
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Ingredients
Gather these easy substances to make the creamiest Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese:
🧀 16 oz elbow macaroni
🥄 4 tbsp melted butter
🍶 2 tbsp olive oil
🥛 2 cans of evaporated milk (12 oz each)
🥛 2 cups common milk
🧂 2 tsp salt
🧀 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
🧀 2 cups Velveeta cheese (cubed, about 16 oz)
Alternative substances for dietary preferences:
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni.
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute common milk with almond milk or oat milk, and use dairy-free cheese.
- Lower-Fat Option: Opt for reduced-fat cheeses and milk to scale back the fat content.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your creamy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese:
- Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking 16 oz of elbow macaroni till al dente. Drain and put aside. You may even put together the pasta upfront and store it in the fridge to save time when making the recipe.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Add the cooked macaroni to the gradual cooker and combine in 4 tbsp melted butter and 2 tbsp olive oil. Stir properly to make sure the macaroni doesn’t stick collectively.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in 2 cans of evaporated milk and 2 cups of standard milk into the slow cooker. Add 2 tsp of salt for taste.
- Add the Cheese: Incorporate 4 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 2 cups of cubed Velveeta cheese. Mix every part till mixed. It might look a bit of liquidy, however don't be concerned – that is utterly regular!
- Slow Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for two hours. After 1 hour, stir the combination to make sure the cheese is melting evenly. Continue to cook dinner for an additional hour.
- Final Stir and Serve: After 2 hours, your mac and cheese will likely be creamy and able to serve! If you favor a drier texture, you may go away it on low for a bit of longer. For additional creaminess, serve instantly.
For extra gradual cooker recipes, try this link to a trusted food resource.
Pro Tips & Variations
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese:
- Extra Creamy Texture: For ultra-creamy mac and cheese, stir the cheese in phases. Adding a number of the cheese after an hour of cooking will assist in creating a smoother texture.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a touch of cayenne pepper for an additional burst of taste.
- Crispy Topping: For a crispy high, switch the cooked mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish and broil for 2-3 minutes.
Variations:
- Add-ins: Stir in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, and even some inexperienced chilies to personalize your mac and cheese.
- Oven vs. Slow Cooker: If you don’t have a gradual cooker, bake it within the oven at 350°F for 25-Half-hour, coated, till creamy and bubbly.
For extra scrumptious variations, go to our Instant Pot Recipes
Storage & Reheating Tips
Storage:
Store leftover Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese in an airtight container within the fridge for as much as 3-4 days. You also can freeze it for as much as 2 months. Just make sure you let it cool earlier than storing.
Reheating:
To reheat, merely microwave particular person servings for 1-2 minutes or warmth in a saucepan over low warmth. If it appears a bit of dry, add a splash of milk and stir till creamy. For frozen mac and cheese, let it thaw within the fridge in a single day and then reheat as described above.
