Paula Deen's Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese

Make Paula Deen's Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese in just 15 min prep time! This creamy, cheesy dish features elbow macaroni for a comforting family meal.

about introduction

macaroni and cheese, a beloved comfort food, has a rich history that dates back centuries, this dish finds its roots in the 18th century when it first appeared in print in an italian cookbook, it quickly made its way into american kitchens through early settlers and became a staple during the great depression due to its affordability and ease of preparation, today, macaroni and cheese continues to evolve while keeping the essence of home - cooked goodness .

the unique selling points of paula deen's slow cooker macaroni and cheese lie not only in its creamy texture but also in the harmony of flavors created by blending sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, the slow cooker method allows for effortless cooking while delivering deliciously gooey results, you can whip this up for family gatherings or cozy nights at home without breaking a sweat.

the ultimate guide to paula deen macaroni and cheese slow cooker

this ultimate guide shines a light on macaroni and cheese's rich culinary heritage, from humble beginnings as an italian pasta dish to becoming an american classic served at picnics, potlucks, or even holiday dinners macaroni and cheese has stood the test of time.

its fascinating origin story includes tales from various cultures adapting recipes over generations, in many southern households, mac 'n' cheese is more than just food; it's woven into family traditions passed down through generations, it's often served alongside fried chicken or barbecue ribs, making it a cultural cornerstone .

in modern - day popularity, this dish remains ever - relevant. with countless variations available like baked casseroles or gourmet versions featuring truffle oil it’s no wonder that macaroni and cheese holds such a special place on tables everywhere .

why you'll love this version

you’ll adore paula deen's version for several reasons. first off are those unique flavor combinations each bite bursts with cheesy goodness that'll make you swoon, the foolproof techniques ensure that even novice cooks can achieve mouthwatering results every time they prepare this dish .

with expert - tested methods guiding your cooking experience, there’s virtually no room for error here. and let’s not forget about the time - saving tips; throwing everything into your slow cooker means less fussing around in the kitchen while still creating something utterly divine.

health & nutrition highlights

when it comes to health benefits, this recipe offers some advantages too. packed with protein from eggs and dairy sources like milk and sour cream ensures you’re getting essential nutrients along with all that cheesy indulgence .

there are dietary considerations to keep in mind; feel free to substitute low - fat options if you're watching your calories while still enjoying comfort food vibes. plus with layers of flavor coming together you might find yourself reaching for seconds without feeling guilty.

wellness advantages abound : carbs from pasta provide energy when paired correctly with protein - rich ingredients (hello mac 'n' cheese magic.), balanced nutrition facts indicate you'll enjoy approximately 400 calories per serving a reasonable amount considering you’re satisfying cravings.

recipe at a glance

let’s break down what you need for success :

• total preparation time : just about 15 minutes before popping it into your trusty slow cooker .
• skill level required : easy - peasy perfect for beginner cooks or seasoned pros alike.
• serving size details : this recipe serves eight hearty portions; ideal for feeding hungry friends or family .
• cost efficiency : using simple ingredients keeps costs low without sacrificing taste.

so there you have it the inviting world of paula deen's slow cooker macaroni and cheese awaits you with open arms (and cheesy goodness). whether you're looking forward to sharing moments around dining tables filled with laughter or simply indulging yourself after long days this recipe promises satisfaction wrapped up warm inside each gooey bite.

quality ingredients breakdown

cooking paula deen's macaroni and cheese in a slow cooker is all about using the best ingredients, let’s dive into what makes this dish so delicious, starting with our premium core ingredients .

premium core ingredients

• elbow macaroni : you’ll need 16 oz of elbow macaroni (or cavatappi if you’re feeling adventurous), look for pasta made from 100% durum wheat semolina it holds up well during cooking, when shopping, check the package date; fresher pasta means better texture.

• sharp cheddar cheese : four cups of shredded sharp cheddar is a must. opt for blocks that you can shred yourself because pre - shredded varieties have anti - caking agents that can affect melting quality, store any leftover cheese in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh and ready for your next cheesy craving.

• mozzarella cheese : you’ll also want two cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, fresh mozzarella will give a creamier consistency, but if you're short on time, any good - quality shredded mozzarella will do just fine .

• parmesan cheese : for added depth, grab one cup of grated parmesan cheese freshly grated is always best. the nutty flavor really elevates the dish, keep it refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain its freshness .

• eggs : use four large eggs as your binder; they add richness and help hold everything together, buy organic or free - range eggs when possible they tend to taste better and are more nutritious.

• milk & sour cream : three cups of milk (whole or evaporated) plus one cup of sour cream bring ultimate creaminess to this mac 'n' cheese dream. whole milk gives a richer flavor; however, if you're trying to lighten things up a bit, low - fat versions work too though they may alter the texture slightly .

signature seasoning blend

now let’s spice things up with our signature seasoning blend that takes this recipe over the top.

• salt & pepper : a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon black pepper enhances all those cheesy flavors. always taste as you go you know your palate best.

• cayenne pepper (optional) : if you're feeling daring, throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. it adds surprising warmth without overwhelming the dish .

adding herbs can take your mac 'n' cheese from good to outstanding :

• consider fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top before serving for color and brightness just don’t forget to chop them finely.

smart substitutions

we’ve all been there a missing ingredient right when you need it most. here are some smart substitutions that won’t compromise flavor :

• if you've run out of elbow macaroni ? grab any short pasta shape hanging around like penne or fusilli they’ll work just fine .

• want something lighter ? swap regular dairy products with low - fat alternatives like skim milk or greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein while still keeping it creamy .

for dietary swaps :

• gluten - free folks can use gluten - free pasta blends .

and hey seasonal variations can be fun too. in winter months try adding sautéed spinach or roasted butternut squash mixed in before cooking the colors pop beautifully against that cheesy backdrop.

kitchen equipment essentials

before we get cookin’, let’s make sure you have all necessary kitchen gear at your fingertips :

must - have tools

1, slow cooker : the star player here is obviously your trusty slow cooker 8 - quart size works great. 1, mixing bowls : have one large mixing bowl ready for whisking together those wet ingredients . 1, potato masher : this might sound silly but i swear by my potato masher it helps combine everything smoothly without getting too messy. 1, measuring cups/spoons : accurate measurements ensure perfect results every time trust me on this one.

recommended appliances

a few appliances could speed things along :

1, an electric kettle heats water faster than stovetop boiling . 1, a food processor makes shredding cheese super easy if you're making larger batches often .

helpful gadgets

you might not think twice about these :

1, silicone spatula ensures no cheesy goodness goes un - scooped from your mixing bowl. 1, slow cooker liners save clean - up time after enjoying every last bite.

pro ingredient tips

let me share some insider secrets i’ve picked up through trial - and - error over countless bubbling pots…

1, when selecting cheeses at the store, look for ones labeled "aged"; they usually pack more flavor compared to younger counterparts .

1, to keep leftover cheeses from drying out quickly ? wrap them tightly in wax paper then store inside an airtight baggie not plastic wrap directly against them which causes moisture build - up leading towards moldy sadness later on . . .

3 . ., oh and buy bulk items whenever possible; buying larger quantities often saves money long - term even though it feels scary at first glance sometimes you'll thank yourself down road..

so there ya have it a complete breakdown on quality ingredients you'll need plus tips that'll make whipping up paula deen's macaroni and cheese slow cooker version not only easier but even tastier too. happy cooking friends..

master chef's method for perfect macaroni and cheese

essential preparation steps

before diving into cooking, let's get everything ready this is called mise en place, a fancy term for having your ingredients prepped and organized, start by measuring out 16 oz of elbow macaroni (or cavatappi if you’re feeling adventurous), next, shred 4 cups of sharp cheddar cheese , 2 cups of mozzarella cheese , and 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese , trust me; fresh cheese makes all the difference.

now, gather other ingredients : 4 large eggs , 3 cups of milk (whole or evaporated), and 1 cup sour cream , don’t forget salt and pepper. i usually grab about a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper, if you like a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper too .

time management ? set aside around 15 minutes to prep everything, this way, when you start cooking, it flows smoothly without any last - minute dashes to find that elusive ingredient .

professional cooking method

for this mac 'n' cheese recipe, you'll be using a slow cooker it's the secret weapon here. first things first : bring a large pot filled with salted water to boil over medium - high heat, once boiling, toss in your pasta; cook until al dente as per package instructions (around six minutes works for elbow macaroni), drain it well afterward .

in another bowl preferably big enough to whisk vigorously mix together the eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, black pepper (and cayenne if you're using it), stir in half the shredded cheeses until smooth; this will give your mac ‘n’ cheese that creamy goodness everyone craves.

now comes the fun part : add your drained pasta into the slow cooker followed by pouring that cheesy egg mixture on top, give it all a gentle stir so every piece gets coated evenly .

next up ? sprinkle the remaining cheeses on top then drizzle about half a cup of melted unsalted butter over everything that’s right. butter makes it better.

cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it on low for about two to three hours or high for one to one - and - a - half hours, during cooking time ? just sit back or maybe catch up on those netflix shows you’ve been meaning to watch.

expert techniques

when working with temperatures in slow - cooking recipes like this one the key is patience. you want that heavenly combination bubbling away inside without burning anything at the bottom .

keep an eye out towards the end; you'll know it's done when it's heated through completely and when those cheesy layers start looking all melty and gooey. a good indicator is seeing some bubbles coming up from under all that cheesy goodness .

if you're ever unsure whether it's cooked enough just stick in an instant - read thermometer it should read around 160°f throughout when finished .

success strategies

we’ve all had our fair share mishaps while cooking i know i have. so here are some troubleshooting tips just in case :

• if you notice your mac ‘n’ cheese looks too thick after mixing before starting you can always add an extra splash of milk .
• to avoid clumping later on during cooking process make sure not skip stirring gently before covering.
• letting it rest covered after taking off from heat helps thicken slightly a little patience goes far here.

quality checks should always be made right before serving; taste - test if needed. adjust seasoning accordingly but remember you can always add more but can't take away once mixed in.

for final touches ? a sprinkle more shredded cheese atop right before serving adds pretty presentation along with flavor boost just pop back under lid briefly till melted again if desired.

with these steps mastered get ready for compliments galore because you've just made paula deen’s slow cooker macaroni & cheese like a true chef. enjoy every bite knowing how effortless yet deliciously comforting homemade mac can truly be.

professional secrets

when it comes to making paula deen's macaroni and cheese in a slow cooker, a few professional secrets can elevate your dish from good to spectacular, first off, always use freshly grated cheese instead of the pre - packaged stuff, it melts so much better and gives you that creamy texture we all crave .

another expert technique is to whisk your eggs thoroughly before adding them to the mix, this ensures they are fully incorporated, preventing any clumps from forming in your cheesy goodness, and don’t skip the seasoning salt and pepper might seem basic, but they’re essential for bringing out that rich flavor .

a little kitchen wisdom ? letting your mac ‘n’ cheese sit for about 10 minutes after cooking allows it to thicken nicely before serving, plus, this time lets those flavors meld together even more. trust me; you'll notice the difference .

perfect presentation

now let’s talk presentation because we eat with our eyes first. when plating your macaroni and cheese, consider using a shallow bowl or a stylish plate, a simple garnish of fresh parsley or chives on top adds color and freshness without overpowering the dish .

for extra flair, try drizzling some truffle oil over the top just before serving it takes this classic comfort food into gourmet territory. you could also sprinkle crispy bacon bits or panko breadcrumbs for added texture .

serving suggestions include pairing this creamy delight with grilled chicken or barbecue ribs perfect for family gatherings or potlucks where everyone wants seconds (or thirds.), remember : visual appeal matters; arrange everything neatly.

storage & make - ahead

if you're planning ahead (which i often do.), storing leftovers properly is crucial for keeping that deliciousness intact, after cooking, let your macaroni cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container; this helps maintain its creaminess .

to preserve freshness longer than just a few days in the fridge (where it lasts up to four days), consider freezing portions in freezer - safe containers or bags just make sure they're well - sealed. reheating can be tricky; microwave on low power to avoid drying it out or heat gently on the stove with a splash of milk until warmed through .

a pro tip ? if you know you're going to have leftovers, leave some cheese topping aside until reheating that way it's still gooey and melty when served again.

creative variations

let’s get creative. paula deen’s slow cooker mac 'n' cheese is versatile enough for flavor adaptations like adding jalapeños if you want some spice or mixing in roasted garlic for depth .

dietary modifications are easy too. use gluten - free pasta if necessary you won’t lose any indulgence here and opt for low - fat dairy products if you're watching calories while still enjoying comfort food bliss .

feeling seasonal ? toss in pumpkin puree during fall months or chopped spinach during springtime a great way to sneak in extra nutrition while shaking things up.

regional variations can be fun as well think southern - style by adding cooked shrimp straight into the mix the possibilities are endless.

expert faq solutions

got questions ? you're not alone. one common concern is how long should you really cook it ? the answer varies based on your slow cooker model but generally speaking, check around two hours on low heat; bubbly perfection awaits after one hour on high heat.

another worry might be about thickness if yours turns out too thick after cooking, add a splash of milk at intervals until reaching desired creaminess while stirring gently .

success tips : always taste test once it's done cooking so you can adjust seasonings accordingly you’ve got this.

complete nutrition guide

understanding what goes into our food makes us feel better about indulging occasionally. each serving of paula deen's macaroni and cheese contains approximately 400 calories packed with protein from cheeses and eggs a comforting balance between indulgence and nourishment .

health benefits include calcium from all that cheesy goodness which contributes positively toward bone health not too shabby right ?

for portion guidance : serve around one cup per person as sides with generous servings allowed when it's comfort food night at home (because who really stops at one helping ?), enjoy every bite guilt - free knowing you've crafted something truly special.

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