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Trisha Yearwood Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 95 reviews
  • Author: Marina
  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Trisha Yearwood’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a creamy, rich, and comforting dish that combines sharp cheddar cheese, whole milk, and tender elbow macaroni cooked slowly in a crockpot. This recipe features a hands-off approach perfect for cozy meals, yielding a velvety and flavorful mac and cheese with a golden cheese topping and a subtle hint of paprika.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese and Dairy

  • 20 ounces (567 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 ounce (14 grams) evaporated milk
  • 1/4 cup (57 grams) butter, melted
  • 3 egg yolks (optional)

Pasta and Seasonings

  • 8 ounces (227 grams) elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Dash of pepper
  • Dash of paprika

Other

  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crockpot: Generously coat the interior of the crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Add macaroni: Pour the uncooked elbow macaroni into the crockpot, spreading it out evenly as the base layer.
  3. Add liquids and butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the macaroni, then carefully pour the evaporated milk and whole milk to create a creamy liquid foundation.
  4. Season: Sprinkle the salt and pepper evenly over the mixture to enhance flavor.
  5. Add cheese: Gently fold most of the grated cheddar cheese into the liquid mixture, reserving about one cup for topping later.
  6. Incorporate egg yolks (optional): If using, whisk the egg yolks separately until smooth, then carefully fold them into the mixture to enrich the texture.
  7. Top with cheese: Spread the reserved cheddar cheese over the top of the mac and cheese mixture in the crockpot.
  8. Sprinkle paprika: Dust a light sprinkle of paprika over the surface to add a subtle color and warm flavor.
  9. Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it on low heat. Allow the mac and cheese to cook slowly and develop flavors for about two hours.
  10. Check and stir: After two hours, stir the mac and cheese gently, checking the pasta’s tenderness. Cook for 30 to 60 more minutes if needed, until pasta is perfectly tender and sauce is creamy.
  11. Serve: Once the dish has reached perfect consistency with a creamy cheese sauce, remove from heat and serve immediately for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • You can omit the egg yolks if you prefer a simpler version; the mac and cheese will still be creamy and delicious.
  • Sorting the cheese into two portions allows for a creamy cheese base and a golden melted cheese topping.
  • Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your crockpot model, so check the pasta tenderness toward the end.
  • For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the paprika.
  • This recipe yields a rich dish best enjoyed fresh, as reheating may alter the creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Trisha Yearwood, crockpot mac and cheese, slow cooker mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese recipe, comfort food, cheddar mac and cheese, easy slow cooker recipes

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Find it online: https://marinamontclair.com/trisha-yearwood-crockpot-mac-and-cheese-recipe/