Description
Country star Trisha Yearwood’s creamy crockpot mac and cheese delivers comfort in each rich, cheesy bite. Melted cheddar and smooth dairy create a southern classic that brings family gatherings and warm memories straight to the dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese:
- 20 ounces (567 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Dairy:
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 ounce (14 grams) evaporated milk
- 1/4 cup (57 grams) butter, melted
- 3 egg yolks (optional)
Other Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (227 grams) elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Dash of pepper
- Dash of paprika
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the crockpot by generously coating the interior with cooking spray, ensuring no surface is left unprotected.
- Pour uncooked elbow macaroni into the crockpot, creating an even base layer for the mac and cheese.
- Drizzle melted butter across the macaroni, followed by a careful pour of evaporated and whole milk to create a luxurious liquid foundation.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over the mixture, allowing the seasonings to distribute thoroughly.
- Gently fold most of the grated cheddar cheese into the liquid, reserving approximately one cup for the final topping.
- If using egg yolks, whisk them separately until smooth, then gently incorporate into the creamy mixture to enhance richness and texture.
- Distribute the reserved cheese across the top of the macaroni, creating a tempting golden layer.
- Dust the surface with a light sprinkle of paprika, adding a subtle hint of color and earthy warmth.
- Cover the crockpot and set to low heat, allowing the mac and cheese to slowly simmer and develop deep flavors.
- After two hours, carefully stir the contents and assess the pasta’s tenderness, adding an extra 30-60 minutes of cooking time if needed.
- Once the pasta reaches perfect consistency and the cheese transforms into a creamy, inviting sauce, remove from heat and serve immediately.
Notes
- Prevent sticking by thoroughly coating the crockpot with cooking spray, ensuring easy cleanup and smooth food release.
- Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for superior melting and richer flavor that coats the pasta evenly.
- Experiment with cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, gruyere, or monterey jack to customize the mac and cheese’s taste profile.
- Add protein options like crispy bacon bits, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken to transform this side dish into a hearty main course.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 511
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 624 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 108 mg