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Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni for about 6 minutes, or until just slightly undercooked (al dente). Drain the macaroni and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Set aside about 1 cup of this cheese mixture to sprinkle on top at the end.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, evaporated milk, sour cream, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked macaroni into the slow cooker. Pour the milk and cream mixture over the macaroni and stir gently to combine.
- Stir in the cheese mixture (except the reserved 1 cup) until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Slow Cook
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally if needed.
- About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top and let it melt into a golden, gooey layer.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Once done, turn off the slow cooker and let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese:
- Mix of cheeses: Use a combination of sharp cheddar for flavor, mozzarella for creaminess, and Parmesan for a slight bite.
- Cooking time: Avoid overcooking. Slow cookers vary, so keep an eye on your mac and cheese as it nears the 2.5-hour mark to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
- Variations: Add cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or roasted vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This slow-cooked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, with its creamy, cheesy texture and rich flavors that are perfect for any occasion. It’s the kind of dish that’s always a hit, whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star of the meal. With a slow cooker doing all the heavy lifting, you can enjoy a warm, homey dish with minimal effort!
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