Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, then you’ll absolutely love Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese. This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my home, bringing smiles and full bellies every time it’s served. The slow cooker does all the magic here, melding the flavors together beautifully while you go about your day.

There’s something so special about this creamy, cheesy delight that makes it a go-to comfort food. Whether it’s game night with friends or a simple dinner with the family, this mac and cheese is sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it!
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates a rich, creamy texture that everyone will adore.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and have delicious leftovers ready for lunches or quick dinners.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids (and adults!) will love digging into this classic comfort food.
• Versatile Side Dish: It pairs wonderfully with almost any main course, making it an ideal addition to your dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delicious dish! You probably have most of them in your pantry already.

For the Pasta

• 2 cups uncooked elbow pasta

For the Cheese Mixture

• 3 ½ tablespoons butter
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 – 10 ¾ oz can cheddar cheese soup

For the Cooking Liquid

• 1 ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika

Variations

One of the best things about Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese is its flexibility! You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add Veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for a pop of color and added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Swap Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for varied flavors.
• Mix in Proteins: Add cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier meal that’s still incredibly comforting.

How to Make Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the elbow pasta according to the package instructions. Drain it well. Cooking the pasta first ensures that it has the right texture when combined with all those cheesy ingredients later on.

Step 2: Melt the Cheese Mixture

While your pasta cooks, grab a large skillet. Melt together the butter, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese. This step is crucial because it creates that luscious cheese sauce base that will coat every piece of pasta perfectly.

Step 3: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, add the melted cheese mixture along with the cheddar cheese soup and sour cream. Give it a good stir to combine everything evenly. This forms the foundation of your creamy mac and cheese.

Step 4: Mix in Pasta & Seasonings

Now, add your cooked macaroni pasta to the slow cooker along with the milk, mustard powder, salt, and paprika. Stir everything together until it’s all well mixed. This is where all those wonderful flavors come together!

Step 5: Let It Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about two hours. This slow cooking process allows all those cheesy flavors to meld beautifully. As it cooks, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma!

And there you have it! A warm bowl of Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese that is sure to bring joy to any meal. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Making Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a delightful experience, and a few tips can enhance your cooking process!

• Use high-quality cheese: Opting for freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded can make a big difference in texture and flavor. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly, ensuring that each bite of mac and cheese is creamy and rich.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: A little salt and spices can elevate the dish significantly. The mustard powder adds a subtle zing, while paprika gives a hint of smokiness that complements the cheesy goodness.
• Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix in some different types of cheese! Adding gouda, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of parmesan can create unique flavor profiles that keep your family coming back for more.
• Let it rest before serving: Once your mac and cheese is done cooking, let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows it to thicken slightly and makes serving easier.
• Stir occasionally if possible: If you have the chance during cooking, give the mixture a stir every now and then. This helps to ensure even melting of the cheeses and prevents any sticking at the bottom.

How to Serve Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese

This creamy, dreamy dish deserves a loving presentation to match its deliciousness! Here are some ideas on how to serve it up beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or green onions: These fresh toppings add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs: Sprinkling crushed crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs on top creates a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable adds both color and nutrition to your plate. It’s also easy to prepare—just steam until tender!
• Garden salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes can balance out the richness of the mac and cheese while adding freshness.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them an excellent side that pairs well with cheesy dishes.
• Grilled chicken strips: For added protein without being overpowering, serve some grilled chicken strips on the side. They’re simple yet satisfying!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create not only a meal but an experience that everyone will love! Enjoy your culinary adventure with Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese!

Make Ahead and Storage

Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy creamy, cheesy goodness throughout the week. It’s a wonderful dish that keeps well, making it ideal for busy nights or potlucks.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen mac and cheese overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese.

Can I use different types of cheese in Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Just make sure to keep the proportions similar for the best results.

How do I make Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular elbow pasta with gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients should be safe as long as they are labeled gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe for Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe! Just ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients.

What can I serve with Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it alongside grilled chicken or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and happiness to any table. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying some cozy time by yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!