Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Recipe

Are you looking for a comforting, creamy macaroni and cheese recipe that's easy to make and requires minimal hands-on time? Look no further! This slow cooker mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer, using simple ingredients and techniques to produce a deliciously smooth sauce.

The key to achieving this creamy texture lies in the roux. By whisking together butter and flour on the stovetop until it forms a light brown paste, you'll create a thickening agent that will help prevent your mac and cheese from becoming too runny or curdled. This step is essential, as many slow cooker mac and cheese recipes can turn out with an unpleasant consistency.

But don't worry - this recipe has been perfected through trial and error to produce a dish that's sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With just a few simple ingredients, including elbow macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, and seasonings like paprika and onion powder, you'll be on your way to creating a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when making this recipe:

* Use a similar-sized pasta to avoid mushy results. Elbow macaroni is often used, but you can experiment with other varieties if you prefer.

* Don't overcook the pasta - it should retain a bit of bite and texture.

* If you're using a different type of cheese, be sure to choose one that melts well.

Ingredients:

• Macaroni or pasta of choice: uncooked

• Cheese: shredded cheddar or your favorite melty cheese

• Seasoning: salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, mustard powder

• Flour: used to make a roux and thicken the cheese sauce

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat.

2. Whisk together flour and butter until it forms a light brown paste (roux).

3. Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly.

4. Add milk to the roux, whisking until smooth.

5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.

6. In a slow cooker, combine cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and shredded cheese.

7. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and mustard powder.

8. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.

Tips:

* For an extra creamy sauce, try adding a splash of milk or cream towards the end of cooking time.

* Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.

* If you prefer a baked mac and cheese, simply transfer the cooked pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese before broiling until golden brown.

With this slow cooker macaroni and cheese recipe, you'll be enjoying a comforting, creamy meal in no time. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal hands-on time and using simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. So go ahead - give it a try!

Slow cooker macaroni and cheese