Slow Cooker Creamy Alfredo Pasta
Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting and creamy pasta dish that requires little effort,
Slow Cooker Creamy Alfredo Pasta is the perfect solution.
With tender pasta, rich Alfredo sauce, and the ease of slow cooking, this recipe makes dinner simple yet indulgent.
It’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want a hearty meal without standing over the stove.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless chicken breasts or thighs (optional, for protein)
- 16 oz (450 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini work best)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken (optional): Place chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add liquids and flavor: Pour in chicken broth, add minced garlic, butter, and cream cheese cubes.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until chicken is tender.
- Shred chicken: If using chicken, remove and shred it with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker.
- Add pasta: Stir in uncooked pasta and heavy cream. Cover and cook on high for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked al dente.
- Finish the sauce: Add Parmesan cheese, stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.
Description
This Slow Cooker Creamy Alfredo Pasta is rich, cheesy, and full of flavor.
The slow cooking process allows the chicken (if added) to become tender and juicy,
while the cream and cheese create a silky sauce that perfectly coats the pasta.
It’s a complete comfort meal made with minimal effort.
Tips
- Pasta timing: Keep an eye on the pasta in the last 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Extra creaminess: Add a little more cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.
- Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for heavy cream.
- Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of cream or milk.
Correction
A common mistake is adding the pasta too early.
If you put the pasta in at the beginning, it will become mushy.
Always add it near the end of cooking.
Enjoy
Serve this creamy pasta with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Every bite is indulgent, cozy, and satisfying—perfect for pasta lovers!
