Description

This Ultimate Mac & Cheese recipe offers a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Combining elbow macaroni, a rich blend of cheddar and Colby cheeses, Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese condensed soup, and aromatic seasonings, this dish delivers rich flavor and perfect pasta texture after slow simmering. Ideal for an easy family meal or potluck favorite, it provides six hearty servings of warm, cheesy goodness with minimal prep work.

Ingredients

Macaroni and Cheese Base

3 cups uncooked elbow macaroni pasta
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Colby cheese
3 tablespoons soft butter
3 cups half and half
1 (15-ounce) can Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese condensed soup

Seasonings

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

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Instructions

Combine the Soup Base: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the half and half with the Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese condensed soup until the mixture is smooth and well blended, ensuring an even creamy base for the dish.
Add Seasoning: Stir in the smoked paprika and ground black pepper to the soup mixture to introduce depth of flavor and a subtle smoky note that complements the cheeses.
Layer in the Slow Cooker: Pour half of the uncooked elbow macaroni into the slow cooker, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the shredded Colby cheese, half of the soft butter, and half of the prepared soup mixture, creating a layered effect for even cooking.
Mix Well: Gently stir the ingredients in the slow cooker to combine them thoroughly while keeping the pasta mostly in place. Reserve the remaining cheddar and Colby cheeses for topping after cooking.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Allow the macaroni and cheese to cook and simmer for about three hours, during which the pasta softens, and the flavors meld together beautifully into a creamy casserole.
Serve: After cooking, stir the macaroni and cheese gently to blend any settled ingredients. Sprinkle the reserved cheeses on top and let them melt into the hot dish before serving, adding an extra cheesy finish.

Notes

Using a slow cooker allows for hands-off cooking and ensures the pasta absorbs maximum flavor.
Do not over-stir during cooking to prevent mushy pasta.
Feel free to adjust cheese types or add extras like cooked bacon or breadcrumbs for topping.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated; add a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
This recipe is perfect for potlucks or easy weeknight dinners requiring minimal active preparation.