Garlic mac & cheese

When I think of mac & cheese, it reminds me of being in New York. This is a simple, fuss-free way to make it at home in one pot, saving time but never compromising on flavour. This is proper comfort food to fill you up on a cold winter night. I use low-fat butter as you might as well save on calories where you can! Mac & cheese puts a smile on everyone’s face.

serves: 4

Ingredients

• 400g dried macaroni pasta
• 725ml semi-skimmed milk
• 5 garlic cloves, crushed
• 130g Cheddar cheese, grated
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp grated nutmeg
• 100g low-fat butter
• 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
• handful of breadcrumbs (optional)
• salt and pepper, to taste
• chopped chives, to garnish
  
  

Method

1. Place all the ingredients, except the Parmesan and breadcrumbs, in the slow cooker, stir and season to taste. Cook on low for 1 hour 20 minutes. Stir well, add the Parmesan and a little extra milk if it needs loosening up, then cook for another 20-25 minutes.

2. If you like a crispy topping and you have an ovenproof slow cooker pot, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the pasta and cook under a preheated grill until golden. Garnish with chopped chives.