Who says that rice cookers can only be used to make rice? With just a few simple steps, you can create a rich, cheesy and gooey bowl of mac and cheese with just your rice cooker.
This Macaroni and Cheese recipe is perfect for a quick weekday dinner or as an easy student dinner – delivering flavour with minimal preparation (and even lesser washing!)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a one-pot recipe, making it convenient and easy for anyone to just add in your ingredients and get the perfect creamy cheesy mac and cheese. With less preparation required, there’s even less washing needed (it’s just the rice cooker pot)!
This is a beginner recipe that can be whipped up under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families or students.
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup of elbow macaroni
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp cream cheese
- 5 cheddar cheese slices / 1 cup of shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional:
- Vegetable of choice (Capsicums/Tomatoes)
- Protein of choice (Chicken Breast)
- Bacon bits
How to Make Mac And Cheese in a Rice Cooker
Step 1: Add the Pasta
Place the macaroni into the rice cooker together with the milk, water, and butter.
Close the lid and cook for 15 – 20 minutes.
If you’re using TRC1030, set the rice cooker to ‘Quick Cook’ and it will start cooking for 15mins.
Step 2: Adding Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in:
- Cheddar cheese (slices or shredded)
- Cream cheese
- A pinch of salt and pepper, to taste
Cook for 5 minutes and continue stirring after.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!
(Optional) For our recipe, we mixed in bacon bits and capsicum, and added a portion of chicken breast for extra flavour and protein. The capsicum adds fiber and essential vitamins while making the dish look more appetising, while the chicken boosts the protein content for a much more balanced meal.
Serve and enjoy this easy, cheesy, gooey mac and cheese while hot!
Tips For the Best Rice Cooker Mac and Cheese
Stir halfway through cooking
A quick stir helps cook the pasta more evenly and prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the rice cooker.
Don’t overcook
The pasta continues to soften slightly after cooking, so stop once it’s al dente for the best texture.
If you have overcooked your mac and cheese, simply add in more milk and cook until you achieve the creamy texture you desire.
Can You Really Cook Pasta in a Rice Cooker?
Absolutely! A rice cooker isn’t just for preparing fluffy rice. It can also cook pasta, soups, oatmeal, steamed vegetables and many other one-pot meals.
The consistent heat makes it ideal for recipes like mac and cheese, allowing the pasta to cook while the cheese sauce comes together in the same pot.
Why Make Mac and Cheese in a Rice Cooker?
Cooking mac and cheese in a rice cooker means less monitoring, fewer dishes to be washed and consistent delicious results. It’s a convenient way to prepare comfort food without requiring multiple pots and pans.
Whether you’re cooking for one or your family, or preparing a quick meal, this recipe proves just how versatile your rice cooker can be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes. Small pasta such as shells, macaroni or cavatappi works best. Larger pasta may require additional cooking time.
Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes. Unsweetened oat milk or soy milk works well, although the final texture may slightly differ from dairy milk.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.
The Perfect Comfort Food, Made Easy
This rice cooker mac and cheese is one of the easiest ways to enjoy a warm, comforting meal with minimal effort. With simple ingredients and plenty of room for customisation, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to whenever you’re craving something rich, cheesy, and satisfying.
Whether you’re feeding the family or making a quick meal for yourself, your rice cooker can become your everyday kitchen companion for delicious homemade meals.