Slow Cooker Creamy Alfredo Pasta
Slow Cooker Creamy Alfredo Pasta is the kind of recipe that makes dinner feel effortless. With tender pasta coated in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce, this dish delivers comfort with minimal work. The slow cooker brings everything together gently, allowing the flavors to deepen while you go about your day. It’s perfect for busy families or anyone craving a warm, creamy meal without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (optional; omit for a meatless version)
- 1 pound dry pasta (penne or fettuccine works well)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken (if using) into the bottom of the slow cooker. Season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the minced garlic on top.
Step 2: Add the Liquids
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the slow cooker. Add the butter pieces evenly across the surface so they melt uniformly during cooking.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Base
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or on high for 2 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender, and the sauce should be hot and fragrant.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
If you added chicken, remove it from the slow cooker once it is cooked. Shred it with two forks, then return it to the sauce and stir well so it blends evenly.
Step 5: Add the Pasta
Add the dry pasta directly into the slow cooker. Stir to ensure all the noodles are submerged in the sauce.
Cover and continue cooking on high for 25 to 35 minutes, stirring once or twice to prevent sticking. The pasta should become tender as it absorbs the broth and cream.
Step 6: Add the Parmesan
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts and thickens the sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Turn off the slow cooker and let the pasta rest for 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken to a creamy consistency.
Serve warm, topped with fresh parsley.
