Trisha Yearwood’s Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

There’s just something magical about gathering around the table to enjoy Trisha Yearwood’s Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese. Creamy, rich, and perfectly cheesy, this Southern classic is the ultimate comfort food that never fails to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, heading to a potluck, or simply craving a warm, nostalgic dish, this version makes it effortlessly easy—just combine your ingredients, let your slow cooker work its magic, and prepare for a mac and cheese that’s decadently satisfying from the very first bite.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Trisha Yearwood’s Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a job to do, from adding creaminess to delivering deep cheddar flavor, so make sure to use the best quality you can find for the ultimate experience.

• Elbow Macaroni: The classic shape that holds the creamy cheese sauce perfectly and offers a satisfying bite.
• Unsalted Butter (melted): Adds richness and smoothness, helping the sauce cling to every piece of pasta.
• Large Eggs (beaten): The secret to that signature custardy texture—the eggs bind everything together beautifully.
• Evaporated Milk: Gives a concentrated creaminess and that classic old-fashioned flavor to the dish.
• Whole Milk: Balances out the richness and helps make the sauce ultra-silky.
• Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The bold star that brings sharp, tangy flavor and that beloved gooey texture.
• Salt: Just enough to enhance all the wonderful flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Ground Black Pepper: Brings a warmly spiced, subtle kick to the comforting blend of cheese and pasta.

How to Make Trisha Yearwood’s Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Prep Your Slow Cooker and Pasta

Begin by giving your slow cooker a little love—a quick spritz of nonstick cooking spray on the inside ensures that nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni for about six minutes. You want the pasta to be just barely tender, since it’ll keep cooking later. Drain it well, then transfer the macaroni directly to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Creamy Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, whole milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic starts! Whisking thoroughly ensures a silky, custardy base that will envelop every noodle in creamy goodness.

Step 3: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

Pour that luscious milk and egg mixture all over the cooked macaroni in your slow cooker. Next, add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Gently stir everything together, making sure the cheese is evenly distributed through the pasta so every bite is extra cheesy.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low. Let Trisha Yearwood’s Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese cook for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, giving everything a gentle stir about halfway through cooking. When the edges are set and the center is dreamily creamy, it’s time to dig in! Watch carefully near the end and avoid overcooking so your mac and cheese stays moist and velvety.

How to Serve Trisha Yearwood’s Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese

Garnishes

Dress up your finished mac and cheese with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for color or an extra handful of shredded cheddar on top for irresistible meltiness. A light dusting of paprika or freshly cracked pepper can add a little sparkle to the presentation and a pop of flavor too!

Side Dishes

This creamy classic is versatile enough to pair with so many favorites. Serve Trisha Yearwood’s Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese alongside barbecue chicken, glazed ham, a crisp green salad, or roasted veggies. It also shines all on its own as a go-to vegetarian main course.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra fun twist, spoon the mac and cheese into individual ramekins and broil for a golden, bubbly top. Hosting a gathering? Serve small scoops in mini cups or mason jars for the ultimate party pick-up food that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any of this comforting Trisha Yearwood’s Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese left, simply let it cool to room temperature. Portion into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days—the flavors get even richer by the next day!

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well. Spoon cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. Store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen up the sauce. Stir often and heat until just bubbly for that just-cooked creaminess all over again.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses in Trisha Yearwood’s Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese?

Absolutely! Try mixing in Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or mozzarella for new layers of flavor and creaminess. Just make sure at least half is sharp cheddar for that classic taste.

Can this recipe be doubled for a crowd?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and cook in a larger slow cooker. Keep an eye on the cooking time and give it a stir about halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Do I have to pre-cook the pasta?

Yes, giving the macaroni a quick boil before adding it to the slow cooker ensures it turns out perfectly tender and not mushy. Don’t skip this step!

Is it possible to make Trisha Yearwood’s Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese gluten-free?

You sure can—just substitute your favorite gluten-free elbow macaroni and proceed as directed. Check the package as gluten-free pasta can cook a bit quicker or absorb more liquid.

How do I prevent the mac and cheese from drying out?

The secret is not to overcook. Check at the 2 1/2 hour mark and stir once during cooking, then serve promptly for the creamiest results.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Trisha Yearwood’s Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese is a beloved Southern favorite. With its irresistible flavor, creamy texture, and easy prep, it’s sure to bring warmth and nostalgia to your table. Gather your ingredients and give it a try—this is one comfort dish you’ll reach for time and time again!

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