Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food, and with the slow cooker, you can enjoy a delicious baked taste without the need to turn on the oven. This recipe takes it up a notch by incorporating buttermilk, adding an extra layer of flavor to the classic dish. The slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld together while ensuring a creamy and perfectly cooked macaroni and cheese. With its rich and cheesy goodness, this recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup (235 ml) buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup (120 ml) egg substitute
- 2 cups (230 g) grated Cheddar cheese, divided
- 8 ounces (225 g) macaroni, cooked and drained
PREPARATION:
- In a bowl, mix together the buttermilk, melted butter, egg substitute, and 1¼ cups (145 g) grated Cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the mixture and stir until the macaroni is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and spread it evenly.
- Top with the remaining ¾ cup (80 g) grated Cheddar cheese.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Start cooking on high until hot, then turn the slow cooker to low and cook for about 4 hours.
YIELD: 4 servings
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:
- 142 g water
- 457 calories (59% from fat, 22% from protein, 19% from carbs)
- 26 g protein
- 30 g total fat
- 18 g saturated fat
- 8 g monounsaturated fat
- 2 g polyunsaturated fat
- 21 g carbs
- 1 g fiber
- 4 g sugar
- 465 mg phosphorus
- 569 mg calcium
- 2 mg iron
- 531 mg sodium
- 287 mg potassium
- 967 IU vitamin A
- 222 mg ATE vitamin E
- 1 mg vitamin C
- 87 mg cholesterol
TIPS:
- For added flavor and variety, consider adding cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or diced bell peppers to the macaroni and cheese mixture before transferring it to the slow cooker.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or a combination of cheeses to customize the flavor profile of your macaroni and cheese.
- To achieve a crispy and golden topping, transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish after it has finished cooking in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and broil in the oven for a few minutes until desired crispness is achieved.
Macaroni and cheese prepared in the slow cooker offers a convenient and flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. The combination of creamy buttermilk, melted butter, and grated Cheddar cheese creates a luscious and indulgent sauce that coats the tender macaroni perfectly. The slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld together while ensuring a creamy and satisfying texture.
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit individual preferences. You can add additional ingredients like cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or diced bell peppers to elevate the flavor profile of your macaroni and cheese. Additionally, experimenting with different types of cheese or a combination of cheeses can result in unique and delicious variations.
To take your macaroni and cheese to the next level, transfer the mixture to a baking dish after it has finished cooking in the slow cooker. Sprinkle it with breadcrumbs and broil it in the oven for a few minutes until the top becomes crispy and golden brown. This step adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal to the dish.
Macaroni and cheese prepared in the slow cooker is not only a crowd-pleasing dish for family meals, but it also makes a great option for potlucks and gatherings. Its rich and comforting flavors are sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
In conclusion, the slow cooker macaroni and cheese recipe with buttermilk is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic comfort food with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this macaroni and cheese is sure to be a hit.
