Prepare to revolutionize your comfort food game with the ultimate slow-cooked mac and cheese that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Imagine a dish so creamy, so rich, and so incredibly satisfying that it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds. This isn't just another mac and cheese recipe - this is a mouthwatering journey into cheesy perfection that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Get ready to discover the secret to the most decadent, melt-in-your-mouth mac and cheese that will become your new go-to comfort food recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni, 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1 can evaporated milk, 2 cups milk, 1/2 cup melted butter, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 6-8 minutes. Drain the macaroni and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the evaporated milk, regular milk, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well blended.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the milk mixture and stir until the macaroni is evenly coated.
- In a slow cooker, layer half of the macaroni mixture at the bottom. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over this layer.
- Pour the remaining macaroni mixture over the cheese layer in the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
- Top the final layer with the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- After 2 hours, check the mac and cheese for creaminess and doneness. If it appears too thick, you can stir in a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the dish set and make it easier to serve.
- Serve the slow-cooked mac and cheese hot, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade mac and cheese!
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting and flavor - pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Don't overcook the pasta initially - aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the slow cooker.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent cheese from sticking and ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or mixing different cheese varieties.
- If the mac and cheese becomes too thick, gradually stir in a little warm milk to reach your desired creamy consistency.
- Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow it to set and become even more luscious.
- For a crispy top, transfer to a baking dish and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 110mg
