This cozy low carb slow cooker meal is exactly the kind of comfort food I lean on during busy weeks. It starts with simple flaked canned mackerel and just five everyday fridge items, then simmers into a creamy, cheesy bowl of goodness that feels like a hug after a long day. It’s budget-friendly, uses what most of us already have on hand, and the slow cooker does all the work while you take care of everything else. My family loves this as a stick-to-your-ribs dinner, and it’s an easy way to get more fish into the week without any fuss.
Serve this creamy mackerel bake right from the slow cooker, spooned into bowls or over a bed of steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice to keep it low carb. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness, and a side of roasted vegetables (like green beans or Brussels sprouts) works nicely too. If you have family members who aren’t watching carbs, you can offer crusty bread, rice, or buttered egg noodles on the side so everyone can enjoy it their favorite way.
Slow Cooker Creamy Mackerel Comfort Bowl
Servings: 4
Ingredients
2 cans (5–6 oz each) mackerel in water or brine, drained and flaked
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup chopped celery (about 2 ribs)
Directions
Open the canned mackerel, drain well, and remove any large bones or skin if present. Flake the fish with a fork directly into the bottom of your slow cooker, spreading it out in an even layer so it covers the base (this should look like a close-up of flaked fish at the bottom of the crock).
Sprinkle the chopped celery evenly over the flaked mackerel so there’s a light layer of crunch throughout the dish.
