Alfredo Crockpot Recipe
A Crockpot Alfredo recipe is easy and requires minimal effort. Start with 1 pound of chicken breasts, 2 cups of heavy cream, and chicken broth. Add cream cheese, butter, and seasonings in your slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 2 hours or LOW for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken, stir in rigatoni, and cook for another 30 minutes. Finish with parmesan cheese for added flavor. It’s a tasty meal you can customize to your liking, and there’s more to explore.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
If you’re looking for a simple and delicious meal, this Crockpot Alfredo recipe is perfect for you. Here’s why you’ll love it:
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Easy Preparation: You can get started in just 10 minutes.
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Hands-Off Cooking: Once it’s in the pot, you don’t need to supervise it.
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One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks together, which makes cleanup a breeze.
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Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to add vegetables, proteins, or different types of pasta. Chicken thighs can replace chicken breasts for a different flavor and texture.
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Flexible Serving Options: Top it with extra parmesan or fresh parsley for added flavor.
This dish isn’t only satisfying and filling but also provides a good mix of macronutrients.
You’ll enjoy a balanced meal that’s rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a great choice for any day.
Recipe
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 to 1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
– Unsalted butter
– Italian seasoning
– Garlic powder
– Grated parmesan cheese
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Rigatoni pasta (or any short pasta)
– Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. In your slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, heavy cream, chicken broth, cubed cream cheese, unsalted butter, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to guarantee the chicken is coated with the creamy mixture.
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Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 2 hours or on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Cooking time may vary based on chicken type and slow cooker settings.
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Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
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Add the rigatoni pasta to the slow cooker, stirring to combine, and cover again. Cook on HIGH for an additional 30 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
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Before serving, stir in grated parmesan cheese and mix well. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese if desired.
Extra Tips
For an even creamier sauce, consider adding a little more parmesan cheese in place of cream cheese if you prefer.
You can also customize the dish by adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli during the last cooking phase for added nutrition.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for a few days or frozen for later.
This dish isn’t only delicious but also a great make-ahead option for busy nights!
Final Thoughts
When preparing your slow-cooker chicken Alfredo, it’s essential to keep a few key considerations in mind. This dish contains 888 calories per serving, with 61% of those calories coming from fat.
While it offers a good source of protein (40g) and essential nutrients like potassium and calcium, it also has a high saturated fat content of 37g, which is 184% of the Daily Value. Additionally, the recipe includes seasonings like garlic powder that enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
When comparing this recipe to traditional versions, you’ll notice significant differences. For instance, the slow-cooker version has fewer carbs but higher fat.
Always use reliable sources for your nutritional information. By understanding these factors, you can enjoy your meal while making informed choices about your diet and health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely, you can use different types of pasta in your dish! Just remember to adjust cooking times and check the texture. Experimenting can lead to delightful variations that enhance your meal’s flavor and presentation.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers in the Refrigerator?
You might be surprised, but you can safely store most leftovers in your fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just remember to cool them first, and always reheat them thoroughly before eating.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can definitely make this recipe dairy-free! Just substitute regular milk with unsweetened plant milk, use vegan butter or cream cheese, and add nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without dairy. Enjoy your delicious dish!
What Can I Serve Alongside the Alfredo Crockpot Dish?
You’ll want to create a balanced meal, so remember, “variety is the spice of life.” Serve a Caesar salad, garlic bread, and sautéed spinach for a delightful contrast to your creamy dish. Enjoy!
Can I Double the Recipe for Larger Gatherings?
Yes, you can double the recipe for larger gatherings. Just remember to adjust cooking time, guarantee your crockpot’s big enough, and monitor the dish to avoid overcooking. Enjoy your meal with friends!