Slow-Cooker Mac and Cheese Tips
Can you put uncooked pasta in a Crock-Pot?
Yes, you can put uncooked pasta in a Crock-Pot, or any other slow cooker, though you may need to add additional liquid for the macaroni noodles to absorb. This is a great tip for those who prefer firmer noodles in their mac and cheese.
Can you put cheese in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. However, if you're encountering issues with cheese separating, reserve cheese for the last 15-20 minutes of cook time. Keep this tip in mind when you're trying other
slow-cooker recipes.
What cheese makes the best macaroni and cheese?
Cheddar is the most classic choice for mac and cheese. Gruyere, gouda, brie and parmesan work well, too. Want more cheesy goodness? Check out our
best mac and cheese recipes.What can I add to my slow-cooker mac and cheese?
The gooey goodness of mac and cheese makes the perfect base for any vegetable. Try adding cooked broccoli, zucchini or spinach to your dish. Additionally, crumbled bacon, cooked kielbasa and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro bring a touch of flavor.
Help! Any substitutes for evaporated milk?
No evaporated milk? No problem. Swap in 12-ounces of half-and-half instead. Wondering what the difference is between the two?
We've got the answer for you.
Reviews
Tried this recipe for the first time and it was delicious! Super smooth and creamy. So much easier than making a cheese sauce from scratch , just toss it all in the crockpot. Next time I will only heat for 3hrs or less
I always put a couple teaspoons of dried mustard in my Mac and cheese. It add a good flavor.
I have been making this recipe for years and was surprised to see so many negative reviews. My boys love this and got the leftovers out last night to finish off as their evening snack! It has worked perfectly for me every time. A few suggestions to avoid trouble: 1. Cook your macaroni to al dente. It will continue to cook so if you overcook it in the beginning, it could be mushy. 2. Only buy the highest quality cheddar cheese and shred it yourself. Some pre-shredded cheddar in the bags has an anti-caking agent that causes it to separate and become oily. I'm guessing that is what caused 90% of these issues. 3. Stir partway through. If it's a little dry, add additional milk or half and half to keep it moist. Different crock pots will cook at different temps so it might need a little more milk. 4. I add a little salt.
Loved this! Crowd pleaser and leftovers for the chef. ;)
We will NOT use this recipe again, EVER. Seriously overcooked pasta was mush after first cooking it and then spending that much time in the crock-pot. The cheese turned into an oily glob of unpleasant mess. Definitely not a good experience. Conceptually, a good idea, just an extremely poor outcome. Back to the drawing board on this one.
Love this recipe. People request frequently. I have made it for years. Like my mom's!
Far too dry; will use only half the macaroni if I make it again.
Was very blah, not much flavor. I thought that with all the shredded cheese and cheese sauce it would be very cheesy. Will have to think about modification to give it a little more flavor.
Was not smooth or creamy. Cheese and/ or milk curdled. Was greasy, did not need so much butter? Will not make again.
Love this for dinners