Description
Trisha Yearwood’s Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with rich evaporated and whole milk, melted butter, eggs, and sharp Cheddar cheese, slow-cooked to perfection for a luscious, smooth texture and deep flavor. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy meals, it’s an easy, hands-off dish that delivers homemade goodness with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni and Cheese
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1½ cups whole milk
- ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Dash of pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 (10-ounce) bricks sharp Cheddar cheese, grated (about 5 cups), divided
- Dash of paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker: Spray a 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine ingredients: In the slow cooker, mix cooked elbow macaroni, evaporated milk, whole milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, beaten eggs, and all but ½ cup of grated sharp Cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly.
- Add topping: Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of grated cheese evenly over the top of the macaroni mixture. Then, lightly sprinkle a dash of paprika for color and a mild smoky flavor.
- Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 3 hours and 15 minutes. This slow cooking method allows the cheese to melt smoothly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Once cooking is complete, turn off the slow cooker, stir the macaroni and cheese to combine the toppings and creamy sauce, and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use freshly grated sharp Cheddar for the best melt and flavor; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- Be sure to cook the macaroni just until al dente before assembling to avoid mushy pasta after slow cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or mix in diced jalapeños before cooking.
- Using a slow cooker liner can simplify cleaning afterward.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
