Ultimate Creamy Rice Cooker Mac and Cheese
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Ultimate Creamy Rice Cooker Mac and Cheese recipe, perfect for a quick family meal or a cozy night in. Using the convenience of a rice cooker, this dish combines tender macaroni with a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from a blend of mild cheddar, Vermont cheddar, mozzarella, and fontina. Whether you're entertaining guests or simply craving comfort food, this mac and cheese can be ready in less than 30 minutes, making it a delightful choice for busy weeknights. Feel free to customize the cheese blend to your liking or sprinkle some crispy bacon or fresh herbs on top before serving for an extra touch of flavor!
4
Servings
250
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
macaroni
2 cups (dry)
chicken stock or water
1 cup (liquid)
heavy cream or half-and-half
1 cup (liquid)
shredded mixed cheeses (mild cheddar, Vermont cheddar, mozzarella, fontina)
1.5 cups (shredded)
butter
2 tablespoons (softened)
salt and pepper
1/2 teaspoon (mixed)
cayenne pepper
1 pinch (optional)
Instructions
1
Begin by adding the dry macaroni and your choice of chicken stock or water directly to the rice cooker.
2
Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, ensuring that the pasta is fully submerged in liquid.
3
Close the lid and press the 'cook' button. The rice cooker will automatically switch to 'keep warm' once the pasta is cooked.
4
Once the cooker has switched to 'keep warm', carefully open the lid and add the shredded mixed cheeses, butter, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
5
Stir gently with a wooden paddle until the cheeses melt and everything is well combined.
6
Leave the lid closed and let the mixture sit on the 'keep warm' setting for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7
Serve hot, and enjoy the creamy goodness! Feel free to double or triple the recipe for larger gatherings, adjusting the liquid as necessary.
Nutrition Information
15
Fat
20
Carbs
10
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is for Ultimate Creamy Rice Cooker Mac and Cheese.
How many servings does this dish make?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What is the estimated preparation time?
The dish can be ready in less than 30 minutes.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 250 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 15 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are per serving?
There are 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving provides 10 grams of protein.
What kind of pasta is required?
You need 2 cups of dry macaroni.
Can I use water instead of chicken stock?
Yes, you can use either 1 cup of chicken stock or 1 cup of water.
What type of cream is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half.
Which cheeses are used in the recommended blend?
The blend consists of mild cheddar, Vermont cheddar, mozzarella, and fontina.
How much cheese is needed in total?
You will need 1.5 cups of shredded mixed cheeses.
How much butter is added to the mac and cheese?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of softened butter.
What spices are used for seasoning?
The seasoning includes 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper, and an optional pinch of cayenne pepper.
Is the macaroni cooked before being placed in the rice cooker?
No, the macaroni is added to the rice cooker dry.
When should I add the cheese and butter?
Add the cheese, butter, and spices once the rice cooker has switched to the 'keep warm' setting.
How long should the mixture sit after adding the cheese?
Let the mixture sit on the 'keep warm' setting for 5-10 minutes with the lid closed.
Should the pasta be submerged in liquid?
Yes, ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the heavy cream and stock or water before cooking.
Can I increase the recipe size for more people?
Yes, you can double or triple the recipe, adjusting the liquid as necessary.
What tool should be used to stir the ingredients?
A wooden paddle is recommended for stirring the mixture gently.
What toppings are suggested for this dish?
You can sprinkle crispy bacon or fresh herbs on top before serving.
Is mozzarella cheese part of the recipe?
Yes, mozzarella is included in the suggested shredded cheese blend.
Can I customize the cheese blend?
Yes, you are encouraged to customize the cheese blend to your personal preference.
Does the rice cooker need a special setting?
No, simply use the standard 'cook' button, and it will switch to 'keep warm' automatically.
What is the carbohydrate count?
The carbohydrate count is 20 grams per serving.
How many total ingredients are used?
There are 7 ingredients listed for this recipe.
Is Vermont cheddar used?
Yes, Vermont cheddar is one of the specific cheeses mentioned in the blend.
Is there any fiber in this meal?
The fiber content is not specified for this recipe.
What is the protein source in this dish?
The protein primarily comes from the cheese and macaroni, providing 10 grams per serving.
How much cayenne pepper is recommended?
The recipe suggests adding one pinch of cayenne pepper if you choose to use it.