Who doesn’t love the creamy, comforting embrace of a good mac and cheese? As a foodie who has tried countless variations, I’m here to guide you through a straightforward but stunningly delicious 3 ingredient mac and cheese slow cooker recipe. Imagine the creamiest, most melt-in-your-mouth dish ever, and yes, it’s that easy to make. No fuss, no frills, just pure, indulgent goodness.
Recipe Overview
- Course: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Total Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before diving into the culinary action, let’s ensure your kitchen is equipped. You’ll need the following:
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
- Cheese grater (if you opt to grate your own cheese)
Talking about 3 ingredient mac and cheese slow cooker recipes gets me all fired up. It’s thrilling to see how minimalism in the kitchen can lead to some of the best flavors.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 1 pound |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 3 cups |
| Whole milk | 4 cups |
Fact: Did you know cheddar cheese is the second most popular cheese in the U.S. after mozzarella?
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Slow Cooker
- Spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or lightly butter it.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the slow cooker.
Note: Ensuring the macaroni is evenly spread will prevent any clumps.
Step 2 – Add the Cheese and Milk
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the macaroni.
- Pour the whole milk over the pasta and cheese.
Warning: Avoid stirring the mixture now to prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy.
Step 3 – Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Check at 1.5 hours to see if the macaroni is tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Note: Cooking times may vary slightly based on your slow cooker model.
Additional Tips
For the perfect 3 ingredient mac and cheese slow cooker dish, consider these tips:
- If the mac and cheese is too thick, add a splash more milk.
- For a crispy top, sprinkle some extra cheese on top in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your mac and cheese, consider these delightful pairings:
- A crisp, green salad to add a touch of freshness.
- Garlic bread or steamed vegetables for a more filling meal.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 54 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Sodium | 470 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Approximation: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient choices and portion sizes.
Dietary Information
This 3 ingredient mac and cheese slow cooker recipe is vegetarian and perfect for those seeking comfort food without too much hassle. To adapt for gluten-free diets, simply use gluten-free elbow macaroni.
FAQs about 3 Ingredient Mac and Cheese, Slow Cooker
What can I add to this recipe to spice it up?
Try adding a dash of paprika or a spoonful of Dijon mustard for an extra kick.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but for the best melting and flavor, I recommend shredding your own cheese.
How do I prevent the mac and cheese from drying out?
Ensure the lid is securely closed during cooking and try not to open it too often.
Is it possible to double this recipe in the same slow cooker?
It depends on the size of your slow cooker. If it’s large enough, doubling the ingredients should work fine.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, leftovers can be enjoyed for up to 3 days.
Can this dish be made with any type of milk?
Whole milk is recommended for creaminess, but you can use 2% milk for a lighter version.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Conclusion
This 3 ingredient mac and cheese slow cooker recipe is a testament to simplicity at its finest. Perfect for busy nights or when you need a comforting meal without the hassle. Give it a try and see how it simplifies your life while satisfying your taste buds.
Feel free to leave comments, questions, or feedback on this recipe. I love hearing how my cooking advice works out in your kitchens!
Check out some more delicious main dish recipes:
- Does Gochujang Go Bad Recipe
- Chicken Parm Sliders Recipe
- Pistachio Crusted Fish Recipe
- Chuck E Cheese Pizza Recipe
- Crispy Chicken Fritta Recipe
- San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe
3 Ingredient Mac and Cheese Slow Cooker Recipe
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
- Cheese grater (if you opt to grate your own cheese)
Ingredients
- 1 pound Elbow macaroni
- 3 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups Whole milk
Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Slow Cooker
- Spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or lightly butter it.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the slow cooker.
- Note: Ensuring the macaroni is evenly spread will prevent any clumps.
Step 2 – Add the Cheese and Milk
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the macaroni.
- Pour the whole milk over the pasta and cheese.
- Warning: Avoid stirring the mixture now to prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy.
Step 3 – Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Check at 1.5 hours to see if the macaroni is tender and the cheese is bubbly.
- Note: Cooking times may vary slightly based on your slow cooker model.
Notes
- If the mac and cheese is too thick, add a splash more milk.
- For a crispy top, sprinkle some extra cheese on top in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
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