Crockpot Mexican Macaroni

Crockpot Mexican Macaroni Recipe - Authentic Taste of Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 4.5 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Crockpot Mexican Macaroni is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of macaroni and cheese. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty and satisfying meal without a lot of effort.

History

The origins of Crockpot Mexican Macaroni are not well-documented, but it is likely a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with a classic American comfort food. The use of ingredients like green chiles, cream of mushroom soup, and Mexican four-cheese blend give this dish a unique and flavorful twist.

Ingredients

1 (8 oz) package uncooked elbow macaroni
1 (10 oz) can undrained diced tomatoes and green chiles (rotel)
1 (10.75 oz) can undiluted cream of mushroom soup
1 cup water
1 (8 oz) container sour cream
1 (4.5 oz) can chopped green chiles
2 cups (8 oz) shredded Mexican four-cheese blend

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine the first 6 ingredients and stir in 1.5 cups of cheese.
Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 3 qt (2.84 liter) slow cooker and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4.5 hours or until the macaroni is cooked.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, you can omit the cream of mushroom soup and use a can of black beans instead.
For a meatier version, you can add cooked ground beef or shredded chicken to the mixture.
For a spicier version, you can add diced jalapenos or hot sauce to the mixture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a slow cooker that is the right size for the recipe to ensure even cooking.

- Stir the ingredients well before pouring them into the slow cooker to ensure that everything is evenly distributed.

- For a spicier version, you can add additional diced jalapenos or hot sauce to the mixture.

- To prevent the macaroni from sticking to the sides of the slow cooker, be sure to grease it lightly before adding the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Crockpot Mexican Macaroni can be served as a main dish with a side of salad or steamed vegetables. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or beef.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for Crockpot Mexican Macaroni is slow cooking in a crockpot. This allows the flavors to meld together and the macaroni to cook to perfection.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Mexican four-cheese blend, you can use a combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack cheeses. You can also use regular diced tomatoes instead of the diced green chiles.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ingredients for Crockpot Mexican Macaroni ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. Simply combine the ingredients in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate until needed.

Presentation Ideas

Crockpot Mexican Macaroni can be garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream before serving. You can also sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top for added crunch.

Pairing Recommendations

Crockpot Mexican Macaroni pairs well with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of refried beans. It also goes well with a cold beer or a glass of white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Crockpot Mexican Macaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or place in a preheated oven until bubbly.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crockpot Mexican Macaroni contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Crockpot Mexican Macaroni contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Crockpot Mexican Macaroni contains approximately 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Crockpot Mexican Macaroni contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Crockpot Mexican Macaroni is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and sour cream) and wheat (macaroni), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Crockpot Mexican Macaroni is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of calcium and vitamins A and C.

Summary

Crockpot Mexican Macaroni is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of macaroni and cheese. With a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can have a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. I had always been a fan of Mexican cuisine, with its bold flavors and vibrant colors. And the idea of combining those flavors with the comfort of a creamy macaroni dish cooked in a crockpot sounded like a match made in heaven.

I remember it was a sunny afternoon when I stumbled upon the recipe in an old cookbook that I had picked up at a thrift store. The book was filled with all sorts of forgotten gems, but this particular recipe caught my eye. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the spicy tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta melting in my mouth.

I knew I had to give it a try. So, armed with my trusty crockpot and a shopping list, I set out to gather all the necessary ingredients. I could hardly contain my excitement as I chopped onions, minced garlic, and browned ground beef. The kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of cumin, chili powder, and paprika as I sautéed the spices in a hot skillet.

Next, I combined the browned beef, sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth in the crockpot. I stirred in the uncooked macaroni, making sure to coat each piece in the flavorful sauce. Finally, I topped it all off with a generous helping of shredded cheese and put the lid on the crockpot.

As the hours passed, the delicious scent of the Mexican macaroni filled the air, teasing my taste buds and making my mouth water. I couldn't wait to dig into the steaming hot dish and savor the melding of flavors that had been simmering away all day.

When the time finally came to lift the lid and dish out a heaping spoonful of the macaroni, I was not disappointed. The pasta was perfectly cooked, the sauce rich and spicy, the cheese gooey and melty. Each bite was a symphony of flavors that danced on my tongue and warmed me from the inside out.

From that moment on, Crockpot Mexican Macaroni became a staple in my recipe repertoire. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about the unique combination of Mexican spices and classic comfort food. And as I continued to make the dish over the years, I found ways to tweak and perfect the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences.

Now, whenever I make Crockpot Mexican Macaroni, I think back to that sunny afternoon when I first discovered the recipe. It reminds me of the joy of experimenting in the kitchen, the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch, and the pleasure of sharing good food with the ones I love.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a hearty and flavorful meal that is as easy to make as it is delicious to eat, look no further than my Crockpot Mexican Macaroni recipe. I promise you won't be disappointed. Just be prepared for a taste sensation that will transport you straight to the heart of Mexico with every savory bite. Ole!