Are you ready for a mac and cheese game-changer? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 creamy crock pot mac and cheese recipes that will take your comfort food to the next level. From classic combinations to unique twists, these slow cooker recipes are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
From spicy jalapeño bacon to lobster and Gruyère, each of these mouthwatering mac and cheese recipes has been carefully crafted to deliver a rich, creamy, and utterly delicious dish. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered. So grab your crock pot and get ready to indulge in some serious comfort food bliss!
Slow Cooker Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese
Slow Cooker Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
A comforting classic gets a slow cooker makeover! This recipe yields creamy, cheesy goodness with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine butter, flour, and milk. Whisk until smooth, then stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the slow cooker mixture; season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Crock Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe
A comforting twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines the richness of parmesan with the pungency of garlic and a hint of creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the crock pot and pour in the creamy mixture.
4. Top with butter and stir gently to combine.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Spicy Jalapeño Bacon Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, spicy, and smoky macaroni dish that combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the bold flavors of jalapeños and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 large jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add butter, chopped jalapeños, and flour. Whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
6. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and crispy bacon. Mix well.
8. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the bold flavor of buffalo chicken, all cooked to perfection in a crock pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In the crock pot, combine chicken broth, milk, butter, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until melted and smooth.
3. Add cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the crock pot. Stir until combined.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Lobster and Gruyère Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent slow cooker recipe, featuring succulent lobster and creamy Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup lobster meat (cooking liquid reserved)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Slowly pour in milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni, lobster meat, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Pour in the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Mac and Cheese
A creamy, cheesy pasta dish elevated by the rich flavors of smoked Gouda and caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated smoked Gouda cheese
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk to create a roux. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low.
5. Stir in grated smoked Gouda cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, caramelized onions, and cheesy sauce in a baking dish. Top with additional grated Gouda cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking time: Approximately 45-50 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Truffle Oil and Mushroom Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the deep, earthy flavors of truffle oil and sautéed mushrooms. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in truffle oil and cook for an additional minute.
5. In the crock pot, combine cooked macaroni, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of vibrant pesto and sweet sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Stir in pesto sauce and sun-dried tomatoes.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
8. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Barbecue Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
A creamy macaroni and cheese dish smothered in tender pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and a hint of smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (macaroni or elbow)
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup pulled pork (cooked with BBQ sauce)
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove skillet from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Fold in pulled pork and mix until heated through.
7. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
A comforting twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and a rich cheese sauce in a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine spinach, artichoke hearts, butter, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and flour. Stir until well combined.
3. Add milk and cooked macaroni to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low), 1-2 hours (high)
Four-Cheese Crock Pot Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
This comforting macaroni and cheese recipe is elevated by the addition of four distinct cheeses, crunchy breadcrumbs, and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, cheddar, Parmesan, blue cheese, and feta until well combined.
3. Add paprika, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture; stir to combine.
4. In the crock pot, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir to coat.
5. Top with breadcrumbs and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low), 1 hour (high)
Chorizo and Pepper Jack Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the bold flavors of chorizo and pepper jack cheese. This creamy, spicy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/2 cup chorizo, sliced
– 1/2 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chorizo and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Stir in pepper jack cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese (optional).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
A creamy, comforting twist on classic mac and cheese, this recipe adds the nutritious boost of broccoli to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the milk, cheddar cheese, broccoli florets, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the slow cooker and stir until well combined.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours, until the mac and cheese is heated through and creamy.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Bacon Ranch Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy, bacon-infused macaroni and cheese recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup ranch seasoning
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add crumbled bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
3. In the crock pot, combine cooked macaroni, ranch seasoning, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Top with crumbled bacon mixture from step 2.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
White Cheddar and Rosemary Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of sharp white cheddar and fragrant rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated white cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, white cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Stir over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Add chopped rosemary and cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated white cheddar cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Andouille Mac and Cheese
This hearty macaroni and cheese dish gets a bold boost from the spicy kick of Cajun shrimp and the smoky flavor of Andouille sausage.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sausage; cook until pink and caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Whisk together flour and paprika in a separate bowl. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, shrimp mixture, cheddar and Parmesan cheese in a large baking dish. Pour in milk mixture and stir until combined.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
Elevate your mac and cheese game with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and sage. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine butter, flour, and milk. Stir until smooth.
3. Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, pumpkin puree, and sage. Stir until combined.
4. Add cooked macaroni and stir until coated with the cheesy sauce.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Reuben-Inspired Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Reuben-Inspired Crock Pot Mac and Cheese: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food!
Get ready to elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. This Reuben-inspired crock pot mac and cheese is an unexpected delight that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup corned beef, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In the crock pot, combine butter, milk, cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and corned beef. Stir until well combined.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the crock pot and stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1-3 hours
Green Chile and Monterey Jack Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a bold boost from the addition of roasted green chile peppers and melted Monterey Jack cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 cup roasted green chile peppers, diced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Monterey Jack cheese until melted. Add roasted green chile peppers and cooked macaroni. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Mac and Cheese
A creamy, cheesy twist on classic macaroni and cheese, featuring the comfort of a baked potato.
Ingredients:
– 1 large baking potato
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
– Chopped scallions and crispy bacon for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the potato for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar, mozzarella, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir over medium heat until cheese is melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until combined.
6. Slice the baked potato in half lengthwise. Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into the potato halves.
7. Top with additional grated cheese and a pat of butter, if desired.
8. Return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game with these creamy crock pot recipes! From classic three-cheese blends to bold twists like buffalo chicken, lobster, and truffle oil, there’s something for every mac lover. Other unique combinations include barbecue pulled pork, chorizo and pepper jack, broccoli and cheddar, and even reuben-inspired flavors. Whether you’re a comfort food fanatic or looking for new ideas, these 20 recipes offer the perfect blend of creamy pasta goodness and flavorful twists. So grab your crock pot and get ready to dig in!
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