Olivia Carter
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to make macaroni and cheese, then you’ve come to the right place. This slow cooker recipe is the perfect solution for busy families or those who want to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a creamy and comforting dish that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
The secret to this amazing macaroni and cheese recipe is the slow cooker. By cooking the pasta and cheese mixture together for several hours, the flavors have time to meld together and create a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats each noodle perfectly. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you, so you can set it and forget it while you go about your day.
To make the best macaroni and cheese in your slow cooker, you’ll need high-quality ingredients like sharp cheddar cheese, butter, milk, and elbow macaroni. You can also add in extras like bacon, jalapenos, or breadcrumbs to give your dish a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures.
Slow Cooker Macaroni And Cheese: A Cheesy Delight
The slow cooker macaroni and cheese recipe is the perfect solution for anyone looking to make a delicious and comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This cheesy delight is sure to please even the pickiest eaters and will have everyone coming back for seconds.
With this recipe, you can achieve the perfect balance of creamy and cheesy goodness. The slow cooker method allows the macaroni to cook slowly and absorb all the flavors, resulting in a dish that is rich and flavorful. The combination of different types of cheese, such as cheddar and gruyere, adds depth to the dish and creates a gooey, decadent texture that will melt in your mouth.
One of the best things about slow cooker macaroni and cheese is how easy it is to prepare. Simply mix together the ingredients, including cooked macaroni, cheese, milk, and seasonings, and let the slow cooker do all the work. No need to worry about constantly stirring or keeping an eye on the stove – just set it and forget it. This makes it the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or when you have guests coming over.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a cold winter night or want to impress your friends and family at a potluck, slow cooker macaroni and cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its rich, cheesy flavor and creamy texture, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds. Give this recipe a try and taste the cheesy delight for yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The key to making the best macaroni and cheese in a slow cooker is using high-quality ingredients. Here are the essential ingredients that you’ll need for this delicious dish:
Cheese
Choose a variety of high-quality cheeses to give your macaroni and cheese a rich and flavorful taste. Cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan are excellent options that melt well and bring a nice tangy flavor to the dish.
Macaroni
Look for a short, tubular pasta shape like elbow macaroni or cavatappi. These shapes are ideal for holding the creamy cheese sauce and providing a satisfying texture to each bite.
Milk
Using whole milk will give your macaroni and cheese a creamy and luscious texture. You can also use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream for an even richer dish.
Butter
Butter adds richness and flavor to the macaroni and cheese. You’ll need it for both the cheese sauce and for greasing the slow cooker to prevent sticking.
Flour
To thicken the cheese sauce, you’ll need all-purpose flour. It helps create a velvety smooth consistency that coats the pasta perfectly.
Seasonings
Add depth to the flavor of your macaroni and cheese with seasonings such as salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. These spices enhance the overall taste of the dish and bring balance to the richness of the cheese sauce.
Breadcrumbs (optional)
If you prefer a crispy and golden topping on your macaroni and cheese, consider adding breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter to create a crunchy crust.
These are the essential ingredients that you’ll need to make the best macaroni and cheese in a slow cooker. Feel free to customize your dish by adding additional ingredients such as bacon, spinach, or caramelized onions to elevate the flavors even more. Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking!
Step-By-Step Instructions
To make the best macaroni and cheese in a slow cooker, follow these easy steps:
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients for this tasty dish. You will need macaroni pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, butter, flour, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings or toppings you prefer, such as breadcrumbs or bacon bits.
2. Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue cooking in the slow cooker. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for a minute or two, stirring constantly. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Transfer the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and pour the cheese sauce over it. Gently stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Add any additional seasonings or toppings at this time, if desired.
5. Cook on Low Heat
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 2-3 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the pasta to become tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the macaroni and cheese is cooked, it is ready to be served. Scoop it into individual bowls or plates and garnish with any additional toppings, such as fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy this comforting and cheesy dish!
Tips For Perfect Slow Cooker Mac And Cheese
If you’re looking to make the best macaroni and cheese in your slow cooker, these tips will ensure a perfect result every time.
1. Use the right type of pasta: Opt for a small, tube-like pasta such as elbow macaroni or shells. These shapes cook evenly and are perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
2. Don’t overcook the pasta: To avoid mushy mac and cheese, be sure to cook the pasta al dente on the stovetop before adding it to the slow cooker. This will ensure that the pasta retains its shape and texture while absorbing the delicious sauce.
3. Make a flavorful sauce: While a basic combination of cheese and milk is a good start, consider adding extra flavor to your sauce. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar or Gruyere, and incorporate spices like paprika or garlic powder to enhance the overall taste of your mac and cheese.
4. Stir occasionally: To prevent the macaroni from sticking together or burning at the bottom of the slow cooker, make sure to stir the mixture every hour or so. This will distribute the heat evenly and ensure a creamy and evenly cooked dish.
5. Add toppings before serving: Before serving your slow cooker mac and cheese, consider adding some delicious toppings. Sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top and broil for a few minutes to create a crispy crust, or add some crispy bacon bits or chopped chives for an extra burst of flavor.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a perfectly creamy and flavorful macaroni and cheese using your slow cooker. So go ahead and give it a try, and impress your family and friends with this comforting and delicious dish.
Serving Suggestions
There are many delicious ways to serve slow cooker macaroni and cheese to elevate the dish and make it even more satisfying. Here are a few serving suggestions to consider:
- Add a protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding some protein to your mac and cheese. You can mix in cooked bacon, diced ham, or grilled chicken to add some extra flavor and substance to the dish.
- Try different toppings: Experiment with various toppings to enhance the mac and cheese. Sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top and broil it in the oven for a crispy crust. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese for additional savory notes.
- Serve with a side: To round out the meal, serve the mac and cheese with a side dish. A fresh salad or steamed vegetables can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the macaroni and cheese. Alternatively, you can serve it with a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the cheesy goodness.
- Make it a complete meal: Turn your mac and cheese into a complete meal by incorporating some vegetables directly into the dish. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers can add a burst of flavor and additional nutrients.
With these serving suggestions, you can elevate your slow cooker macaroni and cheese to create a truly delicious and satisfying meal.
Try These Variations Of Slow Cooker Mac And Cheese
Looking to switch up your slow cooker mac and cheese recipe? Here are a few delicious variations to try:
1. Bacon and Jalapeno Mac and Cheese
Add cooked, crispy bacon bits and diced jalapenos to your slow cooker mac and cheese mixture for a spicy and savory twist. The smokiness of the bacon pairs perfectly with the heat from the jalapenos.
2. Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
For a game day favorite, add shredded cooked chicken and buffalo sauce to your mac and cheese. The tangy buffalo sauce adds a delicious kick and pairs well with the creamy cheese sauce.
3. Broccoli and Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Add steamed broccoli florets to your mac and cheese for a healthy and flavorful twist. The cheddar cheese and broccoli complement each other beautifully, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.
4. Spinach and Artichoke Mac and Cheese
For a gourmet twist, add chopped spinach and artichoke hearts to your mac and cheese. The combination of these savory vegetables adds a nice depth of flavor and a touch of elegance to the dish.
With these variations, you can easily customize your slow cooker mac and cheese to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a little heat, extra protein, or added vegetables, these recipes are sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with your favorite ingredients!
10 Best Macaroni And Cheese Recipe Slow Cooker
WESTON 2-in-1 Programmable Slow Cooker & Electric Indoor Smoker, 6 Quart, 3-Tier Smoking Rack for Meat, Cheese and More, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Temperature...
Features
| Part Number | 03-2540-W |
| Model | 03-2540-W |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Size | 6 Quarts |
- QUICKLY SMOKES FOOD INDOORS: With this indoor electric smoker/slow cooker, you'll smoke your favorite foods quickly and easily year-round right in your kitchen. It infuses meat, cheese and vegetables with authentic smokehouse flavor without the long wait.
- INDOOR SMOKER DOUBLES AS A 6 QUART SLOW COOKER: Besides smoking foods with the cooking vessel removed, you can easily slow cook a variety of foods in the nonstick cooking vessel. It holds up to 6 quarts and fits a 6 lb. chicken or a 4 lb. roast.
- SMOKES FOOD 3 WAYS: Hot smoke is perfect for smaller cuts of meat. Cold smoke adds smoky flavor (without cooking) to foods like cheese and nuts. Combo mode is great for large cuts of meat — it cold smokes food first, then cooks with hot smoke.
- INCLUDES PARTY DIPPER FOOD WARMER WITH LID: This party-size 16 oz. food warmer is perfect for cheese, dips and sauces. It's easy to clean with a dishwasher safe ceramic crock and lid.
- EASY TO USE: The digital controls are simple to use. Choose from 3 smoke settings or slow cook your meal on Low or High. Just set the timer, and the slow cooker automatically switches to Warm when cooking is complete, or it turns off when cold smoking.
Presto 06017 8-Quart Nomad Traveling Slow Cooker, Blue
Features
| Part Number | 06017 |
| Model | 06017 |
| Warranty | Warranty |
| Color | BLUE |
| Release Date | 2023-10-17T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 8 Quart |
- Extra-large 8-quart slow cooker, contemporary blue
- Locking lid seals tight for spill-proof transportation
- Cool-touch exterior and swing-up handle
- Rugged, wide-profile design helps prevent tip-overs when traveling
- Silicone cord secures a utensil in transit
- Detachable utensil holder doubles as a spoon rest
- Removable porcelain enameled cooking pot—PFAS-free
- Dry erase board and marker
- Slow cook settings for high, low, and warm
- Condensation cup collects moisture
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
Features
| Part Number | 33195 |
| Model | 33195 |
| Warranty | One(1) Year Warranty |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 10 Quarts |
- PERFECT FOR A LARGE GATHERING: The 10 quart slow cooker lets you cook enough food for a gathering of 12 or more people and fits a 10 lb. turkey or a 12 lb. roast.
- REDUCE SPILLS: The lid clips tightly to the slow cooker handles to reduce messy spills when transporting food. Carry hot meals to family gatherings, potlucks or to serve at the table without worrying about spills.
- COOK FLAVORFUL MEALS WITH MINIMAL EFFORT: This Hamilton Beach slow cooker has simple controls that make it easy for you to create flavorful meals with minimal effort and great results. Just turn the dial. No watching needed.
- MAINTAIN THE IDEAL TEMPERATURE WITH 3 HEAT SETTINGS: Just turn the dial to choose from 3 heat settings. Cook your meal on Low or High, and then switch to Warm when cooking is complete for food that's warm and ready when it's time to eat.
- EASY TO CARRY WITH FULL-GRIP HANDLES: The large slow cooker is easy to lift and hold onto when carrying to the table to serve a meal or when taking food to gatherings.
- SIMPLE TO CLEAN: The removable stoneware crock and glass lid are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
West Bend 87906R Slow Cooker, Large-Capacity Non-Stick Crockpot with Variable Temperature Control, Travel Lid and Thermal Carrying Case, 6 Qt, Red
Features
| Part Number | 87906R |
| Model | 87906R |
| Warranty | 1 Year limited warranty |
| Color | Red |
| Size | 6 Quarts |
- Versatile Crockpot: 6-quart slow cooker can handle almost any sized meal, whether making dinner for 2 or entertaining a crowd
- Large Capacity: 6-quart crock pot crock features a non-stick interior and is safe for use in the oven, on the stove top, in the freezer or refrigerator, and is top-rack dishwasher safe
- Griddle Base: Our crock pots/slow cookers aren't just for slow cooking - use the included griddle base to make pancakes, grilled cheese, and more
- Glass Cover: This portable crock pot comes with a transparent, heat-resistant glass cover that makes it easy to keep an eye on your meal
- On-the-Go Convenience: Complete with an insulated tote and cover, this travel crockpot makes it simple to transport delicious meals from one house to the next
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Cook & Carry™ Slow Cooker with Sous Vide,Programmable, Stainless Steel
Features
| Part Number | 2176658 |
| Model | 2176658 |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited Warranty. See Product Manual for Additional Details. |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Release Date | 2023-08-15T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 7 Quarts |
- Perfectly cooked meals with Sous Vide
- Precision Cooking with removable temperature probe
- Cook & Carry Locking Lid- The Cook & Carry travel-proof locking lid provides a tight seal to prevent leaks and spills, for no mess on the go.
- Innovative design More usable cooking space for family-size meals *Compared with SCV700 Crockpot.
- Keep-Warm Setting: Keeps food at serving temperature until it's time to eat
- This product contains Aluminum, Stainless Steel (Iron, Chromium, Nickel, Manganese, Copper, Phosphorus), C6-19-Fatty acids, C16-18, zinc salts
FAQ
What are some variations of slow cooker mac and cheese?
Some variations of slow cooker mac and cheese include adding bacon, using different types of cheese (such as cheddar or Gouda), adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or incorporating spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of flavor.
How do I make slow cooker mac and cheese with bacon?
To make slow cooker mac and cheese with bacon, cook the bacon separately until crispy and chop it into small pieces. Prepare the mac and cheese in the slow cooker as usual, but before cooking, stir in the chopped bacon. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the cheese has melted and the pasta is tender.
Can I add vegetables to slow cooker mac and cheese?
Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to slow cooker mac and cheese. Popular options include steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or wilted spinach. Simply stir in the vegetables during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure they are cooked through but still have a slight crunch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these variations of slow cooker mac and cheese are sure to please any palate. Whether you prefer a creamy and traditional version, or want to spice things up with some added ingredients, the possibilities are endless. The slow cooker method makes it easy to have a delicious and comforting meal without the hassle of constant stirring or boiling. So why not give one of these recipes a try and enjoy a warm and cheesy mac and cheese that will leave you wanting more. Happy cooking!
