Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This Crockpot Mac and Cheese by Paula Deen is the ultimate comfort food made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal hands-on time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked elbow pasta
• 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
• 1 ¼ cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the elbow pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and stir until melted and combined.
3. Step 3: Transfer the cheese and butter mixture to the slow cooker. Add the cheddar cheese soup and sour cream, stirring to combine.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked pasta, milk, salt, mustard powder, and paprika to the slow cooker. Stir everything until well mixed.
5. Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 2 hours, stirring once halfway through if possible, until the mac and cheese is hot and creamy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream.
• Mix in cooked bacon or diced jalapeños for a smoky or spicy twist.
• Top with breadcrumbs and place under a broiler for a few minutes for a crispy crust before serving.
• Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta such as shells, rotini, or penne will work well in this recipe.

Is it possible to make this recipe without a slow cooker?

You can make it on the stovetop by cooking the pasta and mixing all ingredients in a large pot over low heat, stirring until creamy and heated through, but the slow cooker provides a hands-off, even cooking method.

Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 81 reviews

• Author: Gabriel
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic made easy with the help of a slow cooker. This recipe combines cooked elbow pasta with a rich mixture of cheeses, cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, and spices, resulting in a luscious and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Macaroni and Cheese

• 2 cups uncooked elbow pasta
• 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
• 1 ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika

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Instructions

1. Cook Pasta: Cook the elbow pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
2. Melt Cheese and Butter: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and stir until fully melted and combined, creating a smooth cheese mixture.
3. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the melted cheese and butter mixture to the slow cooker pot. Add the canned cheddar cheese soup and sour cream, stirring them into the cheese mixture until well blended.
4. Add Pasta and Seasonings: Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the slow cooker. Pour in the milk and add the mustard powder, salt, and paprika. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy sauce and seasonings.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 2 hours. Stir once or twice during the cooking process if possible to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
6. Serve: Once cooked and bubbly, serve the mac and cheese hot as a comforting main or side dish.

Notes

• For extra creaminess, you can stir in a little more milk if the mac and cheese thickens too much during cooking.
• Feel free to add cooked bacon or diced jalapeños for a flavor twist.
• Keep an eye on the slow cooker near the end of cooking to prevent overcooking or drying out.
• You can substitute the cheddar cheese soup with homemade cheese sauce for a fresher taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Paula Deen, Crockpot Mac and Cheese, slow cooker mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta