Are you looking for a delicious and effortless way to prepare macaroni and cheese? Look no further! A macaroni and cheese crock pot recipe is the perfect solution for those busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you want a comforting meal without the hassle of cooking. This recipe is not only simple to follow but also yields a creamy, rich, and mouthwatering dish that the whole family will love.
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a cozy meal at home, this crock pot recipe is sure to impress. The slow cooking process in the crock pot ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a creamy and tender dish that is impossible to resist.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the ultimate macaroni and cheese crock pot recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of elbow macaroni
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/2 cup of onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of butter
Instructions:
- Preheat your crock pot to the low setting.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent.
- Whisk in the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming.
- Allow the mixture to come to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will create a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Stir in the sour cream and shredded cheeses until they are melted and well combined.
- Transfer the creamy cheese sauce to the preheated crock pot.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the crock pot and stir until it is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the macaroni is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Before serving, sprinkle some additional shredded cheese on top for added flavor and texture.
Enjoy your homemade macaroni and cheese crock pot recipe with a side of your favorite vegetables or a fresh salad. This comforting dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds on any occasion.