Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese is already famous for its rich, creamy texture and intense cheesy flavor. But what if you could make this family-favorite dish even easier? Enter the Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Mac and Cheese – a simple, hands-off way to create mac and cheese perfection. This recipe takes all the goodness of the original and adapts it for your slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks. Get ready for a mac and cheese experience that’s both incredibly delicious and incredibly convenient!
This crock pot mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer. It’s the kind of dish that brings smiles to everyone’s faces, from the pickiest eaters to the most enthusiastic food lovers. And the best part? You can set it and forget it, freeing you up to tackle other tasks while dinner practically cooks itself. On those hectic days, knowing you have a warm, comforting, and cheesy meal waiting is truly priceless.
Mac and cheese is no longer just a kid’s meal. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized in countless ways. While oven-baked and stovetop versions are fantastic, the crock pot method offers a unique creaminess and ease that’s hard to beat. If you’re looking for cheesy comfort without the fuss, crock pot mac and cheese is the answer.
Love mac and cheese? You’ll want to explore other delicious variations like smoked gouda mac and cheese, copycat Chick Fil A mac and cheese, green chile mac and cheese, and of course, the super creamy crockpot mac and cheese.
Let’s dive into why this Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Mac and Cheese recipe is about to become your new go-to!
Why This Crock Pot Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese Recipe is a Winner
Honestly, with so many mac and cheese recipes out there, what makes this one so special? It’s the combination of that classic Pioneer Woman touch with the ease of crock pot cooking. You get a wonderfully creamy, cheesy dish with minimal effort, and the slow cooker enhances the flavors beautifully.
What I adore about this recipe is its wholesome, comforting nature that appeals to all ages. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and special, perfect for any occasion.
- Effortless Crock Pot Cooking: Just dump, stir, and let the slow cooker do its magic.
- Incredibly Creamy and Cheesy: The crock pot creates the ultimate creamy texture.
- Wholesome and Satisfying: A hearty and fulfilling meal for the whole family.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or a crowd-pleasing side dish.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes great leftovers and freezes well.
- Minimal Hands-On Time: Ideal for busy individuals and families.
Creamy Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Mac and Cheese in a Casserole Dish Ready to Bake
Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe Notes
Making Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Mac and Cheese offers a fantastic level of flexibility. One of the best things about using a crock pot is that it gently melts the cheese into the pasta, creating an unbelievably smooth and creamy sauce.
You can customize the texture to your liking. For an extra creamy result, you can even add a touch of cream cheese or sour cream at the end. If you prefer a slightly firmer mac and cheese, you can cook it for a shorter time in the crock pot.
This recipe is designed to be a substantial meal, easily serving 6-8 people. It’s not your average boxed mac and cheese – this is a rich, savory, and deeply satisfying dish that can definitely stand as the star of your dinner table.
Pro-Tip: This incredible cheese sauce isn’t just for pasta! Try spooning it over steamed broccoli or cauliflower to sneak in some extra veggies for the kids (and adults!).
Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Mac and Cheese Ingredients
- Milk: Whole milk is key to achieving that signature creamy, velvety texture in Pioneer Woman Mac and Cheese. The higher fat content in whole milk creates a richness that lower-fat milks just can’t replicate.
- Cheese: The recipe calls for 16 ounces of grated sharp cheddar cheese, but feel free to experiment with your favorite shredded cheeses. Colby, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheddar and Gruyere would work beautifully.
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but you could also use shells, cavatappi, or rotini. It’s important to use dried pasta as it cooks perfectly in the crock pot with the cheese sauce. No need to pre-cook the pasta!
Scooping a Generous Serving of Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Mac and Cheese, Showing Creamy Texture
How to Make Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
This crock pot version simplifies the original recipe even further. No need for a roux or pre-cooking pasta!
- Combine Ingredients: In your crock pot, combine the uncooked macaroni, milk, butter, flour, dry mustard, salt, seasoned salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese (reserving some for topping, if desired).
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or on high for 1-1.5 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and creamy. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Melt in Egg (Optional but Recommended for extra richness): In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Take about 1/4 cup of the hot cheese sauce from the crock pot and slowly whisk it into the beaten egg to temper it. Then, pour the egg mixture back into the crock pot and stir to combine. This step adds extra richness and creaminess.
- Serve: Once cooked, give it a final stir. Serve immediately for the ultimate creamy experience, or transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake for a golden brown crust if desired (see notes below).
***Full recipe with detailed instructions is below.
How To Store + Make Ahead Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Storing your Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Mac and Cheese is a breeze. Leftovers are just as delicious!
- Storing: Store leftover crock pot mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Individual portions are great for easy grab-and-go lunches.
- Refrigerator Life: Properly stored, it will last for 3-5 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze crock pot mac and cheese! Freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1-2 months. For easy removal, lightly butter your container before adding the mac and cheese.
- Make Ahead Tips: Prepare this recipe ahead of time for stress-free dinners. You can assemble all the ingredients in the crock pot insert and store it in the refrigerator. Then, simply place the insert into the crock pot and cook when ready.
- Food Safety: For more information on food safety, check out resources like Stilltasty.com.
You can also prep by measuring out all your ingredients in advance, making weeknight assembly even faster.
Delicious Plate of Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Mac and Cheese, Perfect Comfort Food
Recipe Variations for Your Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Customizing your crock pot mac and cheese is easy and fun!
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Try adding Gruyere, Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a smoky Gouda. A combination of cheeses adds depth of flavor.
- Pasta Types: While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to use shells, rotini, cavatappi, or even penne.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of paprika, cayenne pepper for heat, or thyme for an earthy note. A dash of nutmeg can also enhance the cheesy flavor.
- Add-Ins: Stir in cooked bacon bits, diced ham, shredded chicken, or hotdogs for a heartier meal. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower can also be added for extra nutrition and flavor.
More Mac and Cheese Recipes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Mac And Cheese
This Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Mac and Cheese recipe delivers the same thick, creamy, cheesy goodness you love, made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Author: Kathleen
Ingredients
- 4 cups dried macaroni (elbow, shells, or your favorite)
- 1 large whole egg, beaten (optional, for extra richness)
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 heaping teaspoons dry mustard (more to taste)
- 16 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt (more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Optional Spices:
- Cayenne pepper
- Paprika
- Thyme
- Nutmeg
Optional Toppings:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated (for topping and baking)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a 6-quart or larger crock pot, combine uncooked macaroni, melted butter, flour, milk, dry mustard, salt, seasoned salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Stir in 16 ounces of grated cheddar cheese. Reserve some cheese for topping if desired.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or on HIGH for 1-1.5 hours, or until pasta is tender and cheese is melted and creamy. Stir occasionally during cooking.
- (Optional for extra richness) In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Remove 1/4 cup of hot cheese sauce from the crock pot and slowly whisk it into the beaten egg to temper it. Pour the egg mixture back into the crock pot and stir to combine.
- Serve immediately for a super creamy mac and cheese.
- (Optional baking for a golden crust) Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Pour the mac and cheese into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the optional 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Fans Also Made:
Nutrition
Serving: 1/6 of the recipe | Calories: 965kcal | Carbohydrates: 80g | Protein: 45g | Fat: 50g | Saturated Fat: 31g | Cholesterol: 180mg | Sodium: 1219mg | Potassium: 472mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1690IU | Vitamin C: 1.7mg | Calcium: 960mg | Iron: 2.5mg
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