Description
This Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort food inspired by Paula Deen, perfect for potlucks or a cozy night in. It’s easy to make with a slow cooker, requiring minimal effort for a delicious result.
Ingredients
- 340g (12oz) Elbow Macaroni: The base of the mac and cheese.
- 480ml (2cup) Whole Milk: Provides richness and body.
- 120ml (½cup) Half-and-Half: Enhances creaminess.
- 225g (8oz) Cream Cheese, Cubed: Creates a smooth and tangy sauce.
- 225g (8oz) Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Grated: Delivers classic mac and cheese flavor.
- 115g (4oz) Mozzarella Cheese, Shredded: Adds stretchiness and mild flavor.
- 60g (¼cup) Unsalted Butter, Melted: Adds silkiness and binds the sauce.
- 5g (1tsp) Kosher Salt: Enhances flavors.
- 2g (½tsp) Black Pepper, Freshly Ground: Provides subtle spice.
- 2g (½tsp) Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky twist.
- 60g (½cup) Roasted Red Pepper Strips: Adds color and sweetness.
- 30g (¼cup) Toasted Panko Breadcrumbs: For a crunchy topping.
- 5g (1tbsp) Fresh Parsley, Finely Chopped: A fresh garnish.
Instructions
- Grease Crockpot: Lightly grease a 3-liter crockpot with melted butter.
- Parboil Macaroni: Cook macaroni for 5 minutes until al dente, then drain.
- Add Dairy: Pour milk and half-and-half over macaroni in the crockpot.
- Layer Cheese: Distribute cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella over pasta.
- Season & Add Peppers: Season with salt, pepper, and paprika; fold in roasted peppers.
- Slow Cook: Cook on Low for 2 hours (stir once) or High for 1 hour (stir after 30 minutes).
- Toast Panko: Toast panko breadcrumbs until golden brown.
- Rest & Set: Let rest, covered, for 10 minutes after cooking.
- Serve & Garnish: Serve with panko and parsley.
Notes
For an extra creamy texture, use full-fat dairy products. Don’t overcook the macaroni during the parboiling step, as it will continue to cook in the crockpot.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg