Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and making it in a crock pot takes the simplicity and deliciousness to a whole new level.
In this article, we will introduce you to 15 incredible Crock Pot macaroni and cheese recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also deliver mouthwatering, creamy goodness.
Whether you’re a fan of classic mac and cheese, want a bit of spice, or need a vegan alternative, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game with these simple Crock Pot creations.
Our journey begins with the creamy crockpot macaroni and cheese, a classic rendition of this beloved dish. This recipe features tender macaroni noodles enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce.
Cooking Tip: For extra creaminess, use a combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese in the sauce.
Pairs With: Serve as a side alongside BBQ pulled pork for a hearty meal.
The slow cooker macaroni and cheese recipe keeps it simple yet delicious. It’s a no-fuss version that delivers creamy mac and cheese perfection.
Something that we love about this recipe – and most slow cooker recipes, for that matter, is the fact that you just need to throw everything together in the morning, and then you can go about your day knowing that you have an incredibly tasty meal to come home to.
Cooking Tip: Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Pairs With: Pair with a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
For added convenience, try the no-boil crockpot mac and cheese. It removes the need for boiling the pasta in a separate pot from the cheese sauce, making the whole cooking process even easier.
Cooking Tip: Ensure the pasta is evenly submerged in the liquid to prevent uneven cooking.
Pairs With: Enjoy with a side of garlic bread for a classic combination.
Take your mac and cheese up a notch with the slow cooker creamy mac and cheese with bacon. This recipe combines the richness of cheese with smokey bacon. We love the way the bacon not only adds saltiness to your mac and cheese but a tasty texture as well.
Cooking Tip: Cook the bacon until it’s crispy before adding it to the Crock Pot for the best texture.
Pairs With: Serve alongside a garden salad and croutons for a balanced and satisfying meal.
For a totally dairy-free alternative, try the vegan crockpot mac and cheese. This recipe uses plant-based ingredients to achieve a creamy and satisfying mac and cheese.
Cooking Tip: Nutritional yeast is your friend in this recipe; it provides a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Pairs With: Pair with roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli for added nutrition.
Add some heat to your mac and cheese with spicy crockpot mac and cheese. Jalapenos, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce create a zesty kick in every bite.
The cheese sauce is a blend of sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy punch.
Cooking Tip: Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or fewer jalapenos and hot sauce to suit your taste. If you want a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno peppers before cooking.
Indulge in the richness of garlic with the slow cooker mac and cheese with garlic butter.
Garlic-infused butter elevates the flavor profile, while a blend of mozzarella, gruyere, and parmesan cheese adds depth and creaminess to the dish. This mac and cheese is a garlic lover’s dream!
Cooking Tip: Use freshly minced garlic for the best and most potent garlic flavor.
Pairs with: Pairs with grilled chicken or steak for a satisfying meal.
For a creamy and velvety experience, try Velveeta crock pot mac and cheese. Velveeta cheese adds a smooth and melty consistency to the dish, making it a kid-friendly favorite.
Combine it with sharp cheddar for a balanced cheesy flavor.
Cooking Tip: Cube the Velveeta cheese for even melting in the sauce.
Pairing Dish: Pair with a classic coleslaw for a comforting Southern-style combination.
Combine two beloved comfort foods in a crockpot chili mac. This recipe combines tender macaroni with a hearty chili sauce made with ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, topped with shredded cheddar cheese.
Cooking Tip: Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili powder and red pepper flakes to the chili.
Pairing Dish: Serve with cornbread muffins for a Tex-Mex-inspired feast.
For a protein-packed twist, try slow cooker Greek yogurt mac and cheese. Creamy Greek yogurt replaces some of the traditional dairy, providing a tangy and nutritious element to the dish.
Sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese add some depth to the flavor.
Cooking Tip: Be sure to use full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest results.
Pair with: Pair with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Indulge in a Southern comfort food classic with Paula Deen’s creamy mac and cheese. This recipe features a rich and creamy sauce made with sharp cheddar and cream cheese.
If you want to add some depth to the flavors, then you can add different varieties of cheese to your taste.
Cooking Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of paprika to the cheese sauce.
Pairs with: Pair with a serving of collard greens for a traditional Southern meal.
For a complete meal in one, try Rachael Ray’s mac and cheddar cheese with chicken broccoli. Tender pieces of chicken and steamed broccoli florets are mixed with macaroni and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce.
Cooking Tip: Steam the broccoli separately to ensure it stays vibrant and tender.
Pairs with: Serve with a side of garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
Rounding out this list, we have Ina Garten’s overnight mac and cheese. This recipe features a creamy and flavorful sauce made with gruyere and sharp cheddar and topped with a crispy gratin.
Cooking Tip: To enhance the richness, add a drizzle of white truffle oil just before serving.
Pairs with: Serve with a simple mixed greens salad for an elegant meal.
These 15 simple crockpot macaroni and cheese recipes offer a wide range of flavors and variations to satisfy every palate. Whether you prefer classic creamy mac and cheese, a spicy kick, or a vegan twist, there’s a recipe here for you.
So, grab your ingredients and savor the effortless, cheesy goodness that these crockpot recipes have to offer.
Can I prepare these Crock Pot macaroni and cheese recipes in advance and reheat them later?
Absolutely! Many of these recipes can be made ahead of time and reheated when you’re ready to enjoy. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze leftover Crock Pot macaroni and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze leftover macaroni and cheese for later. Be sure to use an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up on the stovetop or in the oven.
Are there gluten-free options for Crock Pot macaroni and cheese?
Certainly! You can substitute gluten-free pasta in many of these recipes to make them gluten-free. Additionally, check the labels on ingredients like cheese sauce and seasonings to ensure they are gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.
I'm Barbara Hunt, the founder of WomenChefs.org. Being a mom of two, I understand the challenges of meal planning and the monotony it can bring.
That's why I created WomenChefs.org, a platform dedicated to showcasing the skills and delicious dishes crafted by amazing women. My goal is to provide a space where women can find delectable recipes that tantalize their taste buds and ignite their senses.
I hope you'll join me in exploring WomenChefs.org and discovering your next favorite recipe. Let's embrace culinary diversity and try something new together!
