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This recipe provides a simple and comforting macaroni and cheese dish. It uses readily available ingredients and is prepared in a slow cooker for ease of cooking.
This recipe provides a simple and comforting macaroni and cheese dish. It uses readily available ingredients and is prepared in a slow cooker for ease of cooking.
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup whipping cream
- 8 ounces processed american cheese, cubed
- 2 cups macaroni or pasta of choice, uncooked
- 8 ounces light cream cheese, cubed
- 1 (10 ounce) can red gold® petite diced tomatoes & green chilies, drained
- Carbohydrate 29.5
- Cholesterol 89
- Fat 27.9
- Protein 17.3
- Sodium 705
- Calories 438 calories;
Step-by-step
- Place the uncooked pasta in the bottom of a 3.5 quart slow cooker that has been sprayed with cooking spray.
- Add the remaining ingredients, except tomatoes, to the slow cooker and stir until well combined.
- Cook on LOW for 4 hours.
- Just before serving add tomatoes; stir to combine.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework, soccer practice, and the ever-present battle against bedtime resistance. Finding time to cook a nutritious and delicious dinner often feels like an impossible feat. That's why I've become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes – they're my secret weapon for stress-free weeknight meals. This slow cooker mac and cheese is a perfect example. It’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, but requires minimal effort on my part. I can throw all the ingredients in the slow cooker in the morning before work, and come home to a perfectly cooked, comforting dinner waiting for me. It’s a lifesaver on those crazy days when I’m running on fumes and the kids are demanding food, fast!
The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta – shells, rotini, or even gluten-free options all work wonderfully. You can also add other vegetables, like broccoli florets or diced bell peppers, to boost the nutritional value and add some extra color. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or a dollop of sour cream on top before serving elevates it to another level. But honestly, even without those extra touches, this mac and cheese is pure comfort food heaven. The creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and just a hint of spice from the diced tomatoes and green chilies create a flavor combination that's both familiar and exciting. It's the kind of meal that brings the whole family together, reminding everyone of simple pleasures and heartwarming moments.
More than just a recipe, this slow cooker mac and cheese is a symbol of my dedication to providing my family with wholesome, delicious meals, even when my schedule is packed to the brim. It’s a testament to the fact that good food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying, especially when they're made with love and a touch of slow cooker magic. So next time you're feeling overwhelmed by the demands of your day, remember this recipe. It’s a simple reminder that even amidst the chaos, there's always time for a little comfort and a whole lot of cheese.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Use different cheeses to customize the flavor. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses would all be delicious.
- Add cooked ham, bacon, or sausage for a heartier meal.
- If you don't have a slow cooker, you can easily adapt this recipe for the stovetop. Just combine all the ingredients in a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce is thickened.
- Make it ahead of time! This mac and cheese can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
This slow cooker mac and cheese isn't just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl. It's the perfect comfort food for a busy weeknight, a cozy weekend evening, or any time you need a little bit of warmth and happiness in your life. Give it a try, and I promise you won't be disappointed!
