Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mac & Cheese is a beloved classic for a reason. This recipe takes it a step further with a creamy, velvety sauce that’s loaded with flavor. By combining a rich blend of cheddar and Colby cheese, along with a creamy half-and-half base, this dish is smooth, savory, and perfect for everyone. Plus, using a slow cooker makes it super easy to prepare—just mix, set, and let it cook while you go about your day. It’s hassle-free comfort food at its best!

Ingredients

– 3 Cups of uncooked elbow macaroni pasta
– 2 Cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 Cup of shredded Colby cheese
– 3 Tablespoons of soft butter
– 3 Cups of half and half
– A large can of Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese condensed soup (15 oz)
– 1/2 Teaspoon of ground black pepper
– 1/2 Teaspoon of smoked paprika

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Combine the half and half with the cheddar cheese soup in a bowl, stirring until smooth to create the base of your cheese sauce.
Add in the smoked paprika and black pepper to the mixture to enhance the flavor.
In a slow cooker, layer half of the uncooked elbow macaroni, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the Colby cheese, and half of the butter. Pour half of the soup mixture over this and stir well to combine.
Add the remaining cheese on top for a cheesy, golden crust.
Set the slow cooker on low, cover with a lid, and let it cook for about three hours, stirring occasionally if needed.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people. The total cooking time is around 3 hours when using the slow cooker.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Mac & Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or half and half to restore creaminess. Stir occasionally until heated through. For best results, avoid reheating more than once to maintain texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the cheddar and Colby cheese with any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a combination of cheeses for a unique flavor.

2. Can I make this Mac & Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the slow cooker and refrigerate it before cooking. Just make sure to cook it for 3 hours on low when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I add more spices to the Mac & Cheese?

Yes, feel free to adjust the seasoning. You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or even cayenne pepper for a little extra kick.

4. Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cooking on high will reduce the cooking time to around 1.5 to 2 hours, but be sure to monitor it to prevent overcooking.

5. Can I use whole milk instead of half and half?

You can substitute whole milk for half and half, but keep in mind that the dish may not be as creamy. Adding a bit more butter will help mimic the richness of half and half.

6. How do I make the Mac & Cheese extra cheesy?

To get an extra cheesy Mac & Cheese, you can increase the amount of cheese in the recipe or mix in a handful of cream cheese for an even creamier texture.

7. Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute for the regular elbow macaroni to make this dish gluten-free.

8. Can I freeze leftover Mac & Cheese?

Yes, you can freeze the Mac & Cheese for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.

9. Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe is not inherently spicy, but the addition of smoked paprika and black pepper adds a bit of warmth. If you prefer it milder, you can reduce or omit the paprika.

10. How can I make this Mac & Cheese more indulgent?

For a richer, more indulgent version, caramelized onions, or even some breadcrumbs on top for added texture.

Conclusion

This slow cooker Mac & Cheese is a creamy, cheesy dream come true. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect dish to serve for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal, this recipe will leave everyone coming back for seconds!

Creamy Mac & Cheese Recipe

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This creamy, cheesy Mac & Cheese recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a blend of sharp cheddar and Colby cheeses, creating the perfect comfort food. Cooked in a slow cooker, the creamy, flavorful sauce is made with half and half, cheddar cheese soup, and a dash of black pepper and smoked paprika. Perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner, this easy slow cooker mac & cheese will satisfy your cravings with minimal effort.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

In a bowl, combine half and half with cheddar cheese soup. Stir until smooth to create the creamy soup base.
Mix in ground black pepper and smoked paprika to enhance the flavor.
Layer half of the uncooked elbow macaroni in the crockpot. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the shredded Colby cheese, half of the butter, and half of the creamy soup mixture.
Stir everything until well combined, then repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
Set the slow cooker on low and cover with the lid. Let it simmer for about 3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Notes

You can substitute the Colby cheese with another cheese of your choice, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
If you prefer a spicier version, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the cheese from sticking to the bottom