Description
A creamy, rich slow-cooker pasta dish that combines rotini with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. This set-it-and-forget-it meal features a balance of rich flavors and bright acidity for a comforting, easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 16 oz dry rotini pasta
- 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2.5 cups whole milk (room temperature)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Lightly grease a 4-6 quart slow cooker insert with cooking spray or butter.
- Add the dry rotini pasta to the slow cooker.
- In a large measuring cup or bowl, whisk together the milk, chicken broth, melted butter, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the dry rotini, ensuring all pasta is submerged. Shake or stir gently to settle the pasta.
- Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until pasta is tender but still has a slight bite.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the hot pasta.
- Replace the lid and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the residual heat to melt the cheese.
- Stir vigorously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Do not use pre-shredded cheese as anti-caking agents can make the sauce grainy. Always shred cheese from a block for the smoothest melt. Do not cook on HIGH heat as the pasta may become mushy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk; if too thin, cook uncovered for 10 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing as the dairy sauce may separate.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2.5 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 35
- Saturated Fat: 20
- Carbohydrates: 55
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 25
Keywords: crockpot recipe, cheesy rotini, slow cooker pasta, easy dinner, comfort food, meal prep, family friendly