Get ready to revolutionize your mac and cheese experience with this mind-blowing slow cooker recipe that transforms an ordinary dish into a creamy, spicy sensation! Imagine diving into a bowl of perfectly cooked pasta, swimming in a luxurious blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese, with just the right kick of hot sauce to make your taste buds dance. This isn't just another mac and cheese recipe – it's a game-changing comfort food masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup hot sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Add uncooked elbow macaroni to the slow cooker, ensuring an even layer across the bottom.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, cream cheese, hot sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the macaroni in the slow cooker, gently stirring to ensure pasta is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the mixture.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat setting.
- Cook for approximately 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check pasta for doneness around
- 5 hours; if needed, add a small amount of additional milk to prevent drying.
- Once pasta is tender and cheese is melted and creamy, turn off slow cooker.
- Let stand for 10-15 minutes to allow sauce to thicken before serving.
- Garnish with additional paprika or chopped green onions if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality cheese for the best flavor – pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
- Keep an eye on moisture levels – if the mac and cheese seems too dry, add a splash of milk to maintain creamy consistency.
- Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken and develop deeper flavors.
- For extra heat, experiment with different hot sauce varieties or add diced jalapeños.
- Don't overcook the pasta – check for doneness around
- 5 hours to maintain the perfect texture.
- For a crispy top, transfer to an oven-safe dish and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 70mg
