Introduction to Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese
If you’re like me, you know how valuable time is in today’s busy life. To have dinner waiting when you get home makes the rest of a hectic day so much more bearable. Enter my favorite food: Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese! Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it’s also quite easy and inexpensive to prepare and packs a flavorful wallop that’s sure to excite the entire ‘eager-for-dinner’ family. Just imagine creamy cheesy pasta but with that kick of spice, great for those staying-in nights or even game day gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese
This Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese is a revolutionary meal that saves both time and energy. Imagine setting it in the morning and returning home to the irresistible aroma of cheesy goodness mixed with a hint of spice. It’s a hassle-free way to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it brings everyone together, sparking joy and laughter over a bowl of comfort food that warms the heart and soul.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward culinary success. Here’s what you’ll need for your Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese:
- Elbow macaroni: This classic pasta shape holds the sauce beautifully. Use uncooked for cooking in the slow cooker.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that easily shreds into tender bites. It’s the star of our buffalo dish!
- Low-sodium chicken broth: A flavorful base that keeps the dish moist and adds depth. Feel free to use homemade, if you have it!
- Buffalo wing sauce: This is where the magic happens! It gives a delightful kick and unmistakable flavor. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- Heavy cream: Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce, balancing the spice perfectly.
- Sour cream: For that tangy creaminess, it complements the flavors beautifully.
- Cream cheese: Cubed and softened, it melts into the dish, making it extra creamy and delicious.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: A must for any mac and cheese! It adds bold flavor and helps create that stretchy, stringy goodness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: For an extra creamy texture and mild flavor—perfection!
- Unsalted butter: Just a little bit helps to enhance the flavors and richness.
- Garlic powder: It adds depth and savory notes without the chopping hassle.
- Onion powder: A subtle sweetness that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Smoked paprika: This adds a gentle smokiness that complements the buffalo sauce.
- Black pepper: For a touch of warmth and extra flavor.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the dish’s flavors. Adjust to your liking.
- Chopped green onions (optional): For a fresh, crunchy garnish that brightens the dish.
- Additional buffalo sauce (optional): Spice it up more if you dare! It’s your creation—make it as bold as you want.
- Blue cheese crumbles (optional): A classic pairing with buffalo flavors, adding a tangy bite.
For the exact measurements, you can find the details at the bottom of this article, ready for you to print out. Happy cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into creating this delicious dish! Making this Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese is a breeze, and I promise each step will bring you closer to a creamy, spicy delight. Let’s lace up our apron and get cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker.
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and the buffalo wing sauce, letting those flavors mingle. It already smells amazing, doesn’t it?
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Next, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt over the chicken.
With a gentle hand, mix everything together so that the chicken gets coated in those wonderful spices. You’re laying down the flavor foundation here!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Now, it’s time to cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic!
Cook on high for about 2 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and fork-tender. This is the moment when the scent starts to fill your kitchen.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker.
Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces, letting it fall back into the heavenly broth. The aroma is irresistible at this point!
Step 5: Add the Cheeses and Creams
Now comes the fun part! Add the cubed cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella to the slow cooker, along with the heavy cream and sour cream.
Stir gently until everything is melting together beautifully. It should look creamy and dreamy!
Step 6: Stir in the Pasta
It’s time to add the uncooked elbow macaroni!
Mix it all in thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the rich, cheesy sauce. That’s how you get those yummy flavors right into the pasta!
Step 7: Final Cooking
Cover the slow cooker and continue to cook on high for another 30 to 40 minutes.
Remember to stir every 10 minutes. You want the pasta to be al dente, soaking up all that creamy goodness. Almost there!
Tips for Success
- Prep ingredients ahead of time to streamline cooking during busy evenings.
- Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup—no more scrubbing pots!
- Don’t skip the stirring every 10 minutes; it ensures even cooking and creaminess.
- Feel free to mix in veggies like spinach or diced bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the buffalo sauce amount to suit your taste.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker: A 5 or 6-quart model works best, but any size will do.
- Meat thermometer: Optional, but great for ensuring your chicken is cooked through.
- Mixing spoons: For stirring ingredients together seamlessly!
- Two forks: Perfect for shredding your tender chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To measure out your ingredients accurately.
Variations of Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese
- Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Mac: Substitute half of the macaroni with riced cauliflower for a low-carb option that keeps the creamy goodness.
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap the chicken for a can of drained chickpeas and add fresh veggies like spinach or bell peppers to give it a hearty texture.
- Spicy Jalapeño Addition: For extra heat, mix in sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken.
- Cheese Lovers Delight: Incorporate a blend of your favorite cheeses—think gouda, pepper jack, or fontina for a gourmet twist.
- Classic Comfort: Use traditional macaroni instead of elbow macaroni for a nostalgic feel, just like grandma made!
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese
- Fresh Salad: Pair it with a crisp green salad topped with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up that yummy cheesy sauce.
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled sparkling water or a light beer to complement the spicy flavors.
- Garnish Ideas: Top with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese
Wondering about some details on making the best Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese? Here are answers to a few common questions that pop up:
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce mixture a day ahead, store it in the fridge, then cook it when you’re ready. Just add the uncooked pasta in the final cooking step!
What can I substitute for buffalo wing sauce?
If you’re not a fan of buffalo sauce, try using barbecue sauce for a sweeter flavor, or a hot sauce of your choice to create a similar spice level.
Is this Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free elbow macaroni. Check labels to be sure of your ingredients.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk for creaminess.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Feel free to add extra buffalo sauce, or toss in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to ramp up the heat level. Happy cooking!
Final Thoughts on Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese
There’s something truly magical about preparing a meal that brings the whole family together.
This Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese is more than just a dinner; it’s an experience filled with laughter, love, and those cozy moments we all cherish.
Every bite, rich with creamy cheese and a zesty kick, reminds me of how food can connect us.
So next time you need a delicious meal that fits seamlessly into your busy schedule, turn to this recipe.
Get ready to fall in love with this comforting classic—all while creating new memories at the dinner table!
Print
Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and spicy twist on a classic dish, this Slow Cooker Buffalo Mac Cheese combines the flavors of buffalo chicken with cheesy pasta for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1.1 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- Chopped green onions (optional)
- Additional buffalo sauce (optional)
- Blue cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions
- Arrange chicken breasts in the bottom of a 5 or 6-quart slow cooker.
- Pour in chicken broth and buffalo wing sauce. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt over the chicken. Mix gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on high for 2 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
- Remove chicken from the slow cooker. Shred with two forks until finely pulled, then return the meat to the cooker.
- Add cubed cream cheese, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, heavy cream, sour cream, and unsalted butter. Stir until the cheeses start to melt and the mixture becomes cohesive.
- Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring all ingredients are well blended.
- Cover and continue cooking on high for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until pasta is al dente and sauce is thick and creamy.
- Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions, extra buffalo sauce, and blue cheese crumbles as desired.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, adjust the amount of buffalo sauce used.
- This recipe can easily be halved or doubled.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
