17 Slow-Cooker Mac and Cheese Recipes That Are Total Game-Changers

It would be pretty embarrassing to admit that some nights even macaroni and cheese seems too complicated a recipe to tackle. But in the interest of transparency, I’ll admit that sometimes I really am that wiped at the end of the day, and totally not in the mood to cook. Slow-cookers are a great way to get around that, but so often slow-cooker recipes are meat-heavy soups and stews. That’s great, but not always what I’m in the mood for. To shake things up a little, I’ve started experimenting with slow-cooker mac and cheese recipes.

I’ll be honest: There have been some slow-cooker macaroni and cheese failures, but mostly major successes. The key is adding enough liquid so that you don’t end up with cheesy but dry mac. (The worst!) I also pays to take advantage of your slow cooker’s “warm” setting; letting your mac and cheese cook all day is a surefire way to make it too soft. (Also the worst!)

The following 17 slow-cooker mac and cheese recipes are all great options for your first attempt at a slow-cooker mac. Some are super simple, while others have fun mix-ins. No matter which you choose, you should probably head out and get the ingredients ASAP. Why delay an experience so beautiful when you could take full advantage of it, well, right now?

The Kitchn.

Chili Mac and Cheese

You already know your slow cooker’s great for chili. Why wouldn’t it be great for chili mac and cheese, too?

So Very Blessed.

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

This earthy butternut mac and cheese is great in the fall—or any time of year.

Tablespoon.

Chipotle Chicken Mac and Cheese

This chipotle chicken slow-cooker mac has a little extra protein, and some spice.

Let’s Be Yummy.

Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese

Yep, gluten-free mac and cheese is possible. And yes, you can absolutely make in in the slow-cooker.

Savory Experiments.

Bacon Jalapeño Mac and Cheese

If bacon and jalapeño are two of your favorite flavors, this easy slow-cooker mac and cheese is for you.

Recipes That Crock.

Garlic White Mac and Cheese

There’s enough garlic in this white mac and cheese to keep Vampires well away. (And also, it’s delicious.)

Dizzy Busy and Hungry.

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Don’t worry, cauliflower doesn’t replace pasta in this cauliflower slow-cooker mac and cheese—it just adds some extra veggie goodness.

Everyday Good Thinking.

Stuffed Shells

OK, OK, I know stuffed shells aren’t technically mac and cheese—but sometimes they’re just the thing you’re craving.

My Neiss Life.

Bobby Flay’s Mac and Cheese

Bobby Flay is famously good with a grill, but it turns out he’s also good at slow-cooker mac and cheese.

The Kitchn.

Classic Mac and Cheese

This saucy mac and cheese is like easy mac, from scratch.

The Modern Proper.

Mushroom Mac and Cheese

This super savory mushroom slow-cooker mac and cheese is a great way to upgrade your dinner menu, without upgrading your effort level.

Slow Cooker Gourmet.

Beer Mac and Cheese

The secrets to this beer mac and cheese? Beef and stout.

Build Your Bite.

Vegetarian Chili Mac

In case vegetarian slow-cooker chili mac and cheese is more your speed.

Damn Delicious.

Creamy Broccoli Mac and Cheese

This broccoli mac and cheese is a dreamy, simple dinner that’s comforting and packs a serving of veggies.

Spicy Souther Kitchen.

Bacon Mac and Cheese

This bacon mac and cheese isn’t exactly breakfast for dinner, but it comes close.

Damn Delicious.

Four Cheese Mac and Cheese

Quadruple the fun with this four-cheese slow-cooker mac.

Slow Cooker Gourmet.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

What slow-cooker mac and cheese recipe isn’t better with buffalo chicken mixed in?