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Slow Cooker Cheesy Spirals

These slow cooker cheesy spirals are the ultimate comfort food, featuring spiral pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce that’s both indulgent and incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking method, this dish brings a delicious, melty twist to your dinner table that everyone will adore.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 12 ounces spiral shaped pasta
  • 2 cups half-and-half cream
  • 10¾ ounces condensed cheddar cheese soup undiluted
  • ½ cup butter or margarine melted (use butter for a richer flavor)
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Equipment

  • 5-quart slow cooker
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Strainer

Method
 

  1. Cook the 12 ounces of spiral pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
  2. In a 5-quart slow cooker, combine 2 cups of half-and-half cream, 10¾ ounces of undiluted condensed cheddar cheese soup, and ½ cup of melted butter or margarine. Stir until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
  3. Add the drained pasta and 4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the slow cooker. Stir well to ensure every pasta spiral is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW. Cook for about 2½ hours, or until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce has thickened to a luxurious consistency.
  5. Resist the urge to stir frequently; a quick stir halfway through is enough to ensure even melting without losing heat.
  6. Once done, serve hot with a crisp garden salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.

Notes

This recipe is incredibly adaptable. If you don't have spiral pasta on hand, feel free to substitute with penne, bowtie, or elbow macaroni. You can also swap out cheddar for a different cheese like Monterey Jack or Gruyère to vary the flavor profile. For an added protein boost, stir in diced ham, crispy bacon bits, or shredded chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day or two, though the pasta may further absorb the sauce on standing.