Slow-Cooker Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
60 minutes
Difficulty
Intermediate
Servings
6-8
Recipe Description
Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Slow-Cooker Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese. This creamy, smoky dish is loaded with gooey smoked gouda cheese and topped with sweet, crispy bacon for a mouthwatering combination you won't be able to resist. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 ounces) of uncooked penne pasta
- 3 cups half-and-half cream
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
- 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup butter, cut into small cubes
- 12 ounces Cady Creek Farms Hickory Smoked Gouda cheese, shredded (3 cups)
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
Recipe and Photo Courtesy of Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin
Preparation
Place pasta into a greased 6-quart slow cooker. Pour in cream and evaporated milk. Stir in the salt, pepper and paprika. Dot with butter.
Cover and cook on low for 1 hour. Stir and check pasta for doneness. Cover and cook for 30-60 minutes or until pasta is al dente. Gradually stir in Gouda. Cover and cook for 15-30 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.
Meanwhile, heat oven to 400°F. Place greased wire racks on two aluminum foil-lined rimmed baking sheets.
Arrange bacon strips in a single layer on waxed paper. Rub each with brown sugar. Place bacon on wire racks, taking care to not overlap. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crisp. Cool completely. Chop bacon into pieces.
Spoon mac and cheese into serving bowls. Top with bacon.
