slow cooked mac and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
slow cooked mac and cheese recipe
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The Best slow cooked mac and cheese recipe

I’ve always been a fan of mac and cheese, and when I stumbled upon this slow cooked recipe, I knew it was a game-changer. The dish has its roots in classic American comfort food, but this version takes it to a whole new level with its rich, creamy sauce and tender pasta.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together perfectly, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. My family loves it when I serve this at family gatherings or special occasions, and it’s become a staple in our household.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make and can be customized to suit any taste. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main course, side dish, or even as a comforting meal for a cold winter’s night.

I’ve found that the key to making this recipe truly shine is in the technique – taking the time to slowly cook the pasta and sauce until it reaches the perfect consistency is what sets this apart from other mac and cheese recipes. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – using whole wheat pasta and a blend of cheeses makes this recipe a relatively guilt-free indulgence compared to other comfort foods.

I could go on and on about how much I love this recipe, but at the end of the day, it’s all about the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones.

Slow Cooked Mac and Cheese

Slow Cooked Mac and Cheese

4.7 from 1212 votes

A creamy and comforting mac and cheese recipe that is slow cooked to perfection. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika

👨‍🍳Directions

1Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2Drain and set aside.
3The pasta should be slightly undercooked as it will continue to cook in the slow cooker.
4Preheat your oven to 350°F.
5In a mixing bowl, melt the butter.
6Add the flour and whisk until a smooth paste forms.
7Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
8Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
9Stir well to combine.
10The sauce should be smooth and slightly thickened.
11Add the cooked macaroni to the slow cooker.
12Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and stir until the macaroni is well coated.
13Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
14Stir until the cheese is evenly distributed.
15Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
16The mac and cheese should be bubbly and the cheese should be fully melted and creamy.
17Once the mac and cheese is done cooking, transfer it to a baking dish.
18Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top.
19Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
20Allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add cooked bacon, vegetables, or cooked chicken to the mac and cheese for added flavor and protein.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooked Mac and Cheese Works

This slow cooked mac and cheese recipe has become an instant hit in our household – not just because of its comforting taste but also due to its convenience factor!

The leftovers can be easily stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months – perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals when you need something quick yet satisfying.

When reheating, make sure to add some extra milk or cream if needed, as the sauce may thicken over time.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooked Mac and Cheese

1. What type of pasta should I use for this slow cooked mac and cheese recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using a combination of whole wheat elbow macaroni and small shells – it provides the perfect texture contrast to make each bite exciting.

2. Can I use different types of cheese?

While cheddar is traditional in mac and cheese, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or even a blend of your favorite varieties.

3. How long does it take to cook the mac and cheese?

This slow cooked mac and cheese recipe requires around 1 hour and 30 minutes of cooking time – don’t rush it!

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and pasta separately up to 24 hours in advance, then combine them just before baking.

5. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This slow cooked mac and cheese recipe is naturally vegetarian-friendly – just omit any meat or meat-based broth from your sauce.

6. Can I customize this recipe with additional ingredients?

Feel free to add some diced ham or bacon if you’re looking for extra protein or mix in some steamed veggies for added nutrients.

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