The convenience of a slow cooker or Crockpot cannot be overstated, especially when it comes to crafting delicious, creamy macaroni and cheese. Whether you're a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves comfort food, these 5 Easy Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipes are perfect for you. Here's how to create gooey, cheesy goodness with minimal effort!
Classic Crockpot Mac and Cheese
This recipe is a timeless, simple take on the American classic, made rich and creamy by using your slow cooker.
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 (12oz) can of evaporated milk
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the elbow macaroni until just shy of al dente, then drain.
- Mix the cooked pasta with butter, cheese, evaporated milk, whole milk, and spices in your Crockpot.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
🔔 Note: Make sure to stir the mac and cheese gently to avoid breaking the pasta. This will help maintain the texture.
Vegan Crockpot Mac and Cheese
Enjoying mac and cheese doesn't have to exclude those following a plant-based diet. This recipe is as creamy as the original, just dairy-free!
- 1 pound macaroni or other pasta shape
- 2 cups raw cashews, soaked
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Blend the soaked cashews with water until smooth to create a creamy cashew milk.
- Mix the cashew milk with pasta, nutritional yeast, coconut milk, and spices in your Crockpot.
- Cook on low for 3 hours or until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened.
🌱 Note: Nutritional yeast not only adds flavor but also provides B-vitamins.
Buffalo Mac and Cheese
Combine the comfort of mac and cheese with the zing of buffalo sauce in this delightfully spicy dish.
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Parboil the pasta and mix with butter, cheese, milk, hot sauce, and spices in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours.
| Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Cup | 500 | 30g |
Four-Cheese Crockpot Mac and Cheese
Enhance the flavor of your mac and cheese by using four different types of cheese for a gourmet touch.
- 1 pound pasta
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
- 1 cup shredded Gouda
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 3-4 hours or until cheese is fully melted and pasta is tender.
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Create a luxurious meal with this decadent recipe featuring real lobster.
- 1 pound pasta
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 pound cooked lobster meat
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients except lobster in your Crockpot.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours, then add the lobster meat towards the end to heat through.
🦞 Note: You can use imitation lobster if real lobster is out of reach or expensive, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Each of these Crockpot Mac and Cheese recipes offers a unique twist on the beloved dish, making it easy to whip up a warm, comforting meal without much active time in the kitchen. From the classic version to the exotic lobster variation, you can indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness at your convenience. Whether you're vegan, looking for a spicy kick, or aiming for something a bit more upscale, there's a Crockpot Mac and Cheese recipe here for everyone.
Can I make mac and cheese in advance and reheat it?
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Absolutely! You can prepare your mac and cheese ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems too thick.
Is it possible to overcook mac and cheese in a slow cooker?
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Yes, leaving mac and cheese in the slow cooker too long can cause the cheese sauce to separate or the pasta to become mushy. Aim to cook for the minimum suggested time and check periodically.
How can I make my Crockpot Mac and Cheese creamier?
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For extra creaminess, add ingredients like heavy cream, cream cheese, or evaporated milk, and ensure to stir occasionally to incorporate the cheese evenly into the sauce.
