Get ready for a mac and cheese experience that will revolutionize your comfort food game! This isn't your ordinary mac and cheese - this is a spicy, creamy, mind-blowing dish that transforms the classic comfort food into a gourmet sensation. With the bold kick of pepper jack cheese and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe promises to be your new go-to crowd-pleaser that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Lightly grease the inside of your crock pot with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water for about 2-3 minutes less than the package instructions, ensuring the pasta remains slightly undercooked. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy during slow cooking.
- Drain the partially cooked macaroni and transfer it to the prepared crock pot.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, heavy cream, and butter. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended and the butter is mostly melted.
- Pour the milk mixture over the macaroni in the crock pot, gently stirring to ensure even distribution.
- Sprinkle the shredded pepper jack cheese evenly over the top of the macaroni.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, gently folding the ingredients to combine.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cheese melting.
- Once the cheese is fully melted and the mac and cheese has a creamy consistency, it's ready to serve.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with additional pepper jack cheese or fresh chopped herbs if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Always slightly undercook your pasta before adding to the crock pot to prevent mushiness during slow cooking.
- Whisk your milk, cream, and butter thoroughly to ensure a smooth, even sauce.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent cheese from sticking and ensure even melting.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken naturally.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or green onions as a garnish.
- Use freshly shredded cheese whenever possible, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
- If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little extra milk to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 580kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 26g
Cholesterol: 130mg
