This Christmas, my family renamed it ‘Holiday Hug in a Bowl’ because it’s requested at every gathering!.

This Christmas, skip the complicated sides and serve the dish my family has officially renamed “Holiday Hug in a Bowl.” This ultra-creamy, slow-cooked pasta is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich cheeses and perfectly tender noodles into a crowd-pleasing favorite that is requested at every single gathering.

Holiday Hug in a Bowl: The Ultimate Slow-Cooker Creamy Pasta

There is something magical about a dish that cooks itself while you enjoy your family. This “Holiday Hug” is a rich, velvety pasta that serves as the perfect companion to Christmas ham or roasted turkey. It’s thick, cheesy, and guaranteed to leave your guests asking for the recipe.

Prep Time: 10 Minutes

Cook Time: 2–3 Hours (Low)

Yield: 8–10 Hearty Servings

The Ingredients (The Secret to the Hug)

  • 1 lb Fettuccine or Linguine: The wide surface area of these noodles is perfect for gripping the heavy sauce.

  • 1 Block (8 oz) Cream Cheese: Cubed; this provides the signature velvety base.

  • 2 Cups Heavy Cream: For maximum richness and a “holiday-only” indulgence.

  • 1 Cup Whole Milk: To keep the sauce smooth as the pasta absorbs moisture.

  • 2 Cups Shredded Mozzarella & Parmesan Blend: Mozzarella for the “pull” and Parmesan for the salty, nutty finish.

  • 4 Garlic Cloves: Minced fine to infuse the cream.

  • 1/2 Cup Salted Butter: Sliced into pats to melt over the top.

  • Salt, Pepper, and Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg is the “secret ingredient” that makes white sauces taste professional.

Instructions (The Method)

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Boil your noodles in salted water for about 2 minutes less than the package directions for al dente. They should still have a firm bite, as they will finish cooking in the slow cooker.

  2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease your slow cooker. Place the partially cooked pasta inside.

  3. Build the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Pour this over the pasta.

  4. Add the “Hug”: Distribute the cubes of cream cheese and pats of butter evenly over the top. Finish by sprinkling the shredded cheese blend across the entire surface.

  5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours. Avoid the “High” setting, as the cream can break or curdle if it gets too hot too fast.

  6. The Final Fold: About 30 minutes before serving, open the lid and gently stir everything together. The melted cream cheese will incorporate into the cream, creating a thick, glossy sauce.

Chef’s Note on Customization

While this is perfect as a standalone side, you can easily turn “Holiday Hug in a Bowl” into a main course by folding in:

  • Roasted Broccoli: For a pop of color and freshness.

  • Leftover Ham or Chicken: To add savory protein.

  • Red Pepper Flakes: If your family likes a little “heat” with their “hug.”

Final Thought:

The holidays are about connection and warmth. By letting your slow cooker handle the heavy lifting, you can spend less time at the stove and more time giving real hugs to the people you love.