This savory and smoky macaroni and cheese comes together easily in your slow cooker! Topped with sweet and savory bacon, Smoked Gouda macaroni and cheese is sure to be a hit for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 ounces) uncooked penne pasta
- 2 1/2 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 Smoked Gouda cheese, shredded (3 cups)
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
Instructions
| 1. Place pasta in a greased 6-quart slow cooker. Pour in cream and evaporated milk. Stir in the salt, pepper and paprika. Dot with butter. |
| 2. 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. |
| 3. Meanwhile, heat oven to 400°F. Place greased wire racks on two aluminum foil-lined rimmed baking sheets. |
| 4. 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. |
| 5. Spoon mac and cheese into serving bowls. Top with bacon. |
© Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin