Here’s a rich, comforting dish that practically cooks itself—perfect for busy days when you want something warm and satisfying.
🍝 Creamy Slow Cooker Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, fusilli, or macaroni)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (for extra richness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Optional add-ins:
- Cooked chicken or ground beef
- Mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli
- Sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
1. Add ingredients (except pasta & cheese)
Pour broth, cream, milk, garlic, and seasonings into the slow cooker. Stir well.
2. Cook base
- Low: 2–3 hours
- High: 1–1.5 hours
3. Add pasta
Stir in uncooked pasta. Make sure it’s mostly submerged.
4. Cook until tender
- Cook on High for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
5. Make it creamy
- Stir in shredded cheese and cream cheese.
- Mix until melted and smooth.
6. Serve
Let it sit 5 minutes to thicken, then serve warm.
💡 Tips
- Stir occasionally after adding pasta to prevent sticking.
- If it gets too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.
- Use short pasta—long noodles don’t cook as evenly in slow cookers.
🍽️ Flavor Variations
- Garlic Parmesan: Add extra garlic + parmesan cheese
- Spicy: Add chili flakes or hot sauce
- Chicken Alfredo style: Add cooked chicken and extra cream
If you want, I can give you a one-pot stovetop version or a healthier/light version of this recipe.