Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with a dish that’s as bold as it is creamy: Buffalo Crock Pot Mac and Cheese! Imagine the rich, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese, but with a fiery twist that will have your taste buds dancing. This crowd-pleaser is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply indulging in a cozy night at home. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will leave everyone begging for seconds. Ready to dive into this cheesy adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by measuring out all components precisely: shredded cheddar cheese, buffalo sauce, evaporated milk, cream cheese, sour cream, and butter.
- Lightly grease the interior of your 6-quart crock pot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Add uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the crock pot, creating an even layer across the bottom of the pot.
- Cut butter into small cubes and distribute evenly over the macaroni to help prevent clumping and promote even melting.
- Pour buffalo sauce and evaporated milk over the macaroni, ensuring all pasta is slightly coated.
- Add cream cheese and sour cream, breaking them into smaller pieces to help them melt more smoothly throughout the dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, covering the entire surface of the macaroni mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to your personal taste preferences.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat, cooking for 2 hours without stirring to allow flavors to meld and pasta to cook perfectly.
- After 2 hours, gently stir the mac and cheese to ensure even distribution of cheese and sauce.
- Let sit uncovered for 10-15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with extra buffalo sauce, chopped green onions, or blue cheese crumbles for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, measure out all your ingredients in advance. This makes the cooking process smoother and ensures you don’t miss anything.
- Grease the Pot: Always lightly grease your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the mac and cheese from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Layer Wisely: When adding the ingredients, layer them carefully. Start with the uncooked macaroni, then add the butter, sauces, and finally the cheese on top. This ensures even cooking and melting.
- Don’t Stir Too Soon: After covering the crock pot, resist the urge to stir for the first 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the pasta to cook evenly.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or opt for a milder variety. You can always add more spice later!
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the mac and cheese sit uncovered for 10-15 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and makes serving easier.
- Garnish for Flair: For an extra touch, consider garnishing your dish with chopped green onions, a drizzle of buffalo sauce, or crumbled blue cheese. It adds color and flavor that will impress your guests!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Cholesterol: 125mg
