Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and when it’s made in a slow cooker, it becomes a set-it-and-forget-it dream come true. This Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese recipe delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with minimal effort.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or lazy Sundays, it’s a dish that brings people together over warm bowls of nostalgia.
The magic happens as the pasta absorbs the cheesy, buttery sauce while cooking to tender perfection. The aroma of melted cheddar and a hint of butter wafting through the house feel like a warm hug, making this dish irresistible even before the first bite.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Why Is This My Go-To Recipe?
- Hands-Free Cooking: The crockpot takes care of everything, freeing me up to tackle other tasks or relax. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or prepping for a crowd.
- Creamy, Dreamy Texture: The pasta cooks directly in the rich, velvety cheese sauce, ensuring every bite is coated in cheesy goodness. No dry mac and cheese here!
- A Recipe for All Ages: Whether I’m making this for my kids, hosting friends, or indulging myself, it’s always a hit. There’s something timeless about mac and cheese that brings smiles to everyone’s faces.
- Customizable to Perfection: I love mixing up the cheeses—sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of smoked gouda for a gourmet twist. Adding a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne gives it just the right kick.
- A Potluck Powerhouse: Whenever I bring this to gatherings, it’s one of the first dishes to disappear. It’s comforting, hearty, and universally loved. Plus, the crockpot keeps it warm and ready to serve.
Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Box grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 1 16-ounce block sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces American cheese
- 1 1-pound box dried elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 12-ounce cans evaporated milk
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Grate the cheddar and American cheeses. If using American cheese slices, cut them into thin strips.
- Set Up the Slow Cooker: Spray the crock of a 6 to 8-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
- Combine Ingredients: Add uncooked macaroni, melted butter, evaporated milk, whole milk, dry mustard, and salt to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated cheddar and American cheeses until evenly distributed.
- Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 1 hour. Stir well, then cover and cook for 1 additional hour, or until the pasta is tender.
- Adjust Consistency: Switch the slow cooker to warm. If the sauce thickens too much, gradually stir in warm milk to adjust the consistency.
- Serve: Season with additional salt and pepper if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutritional Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 688kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Fibre | 2g |
| Fat | 38g |
| Protein | 31g |
| Sugar | 13g |
Tips for The Perfect Mac and Cheese Recipe!
- Cheese Choices: For the creamiest texture, stick with a mix of sharp cheddar and American cheese. Feel free to swap in Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Colby for a flavor twist.
- Pre-Grate Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded, as it doesn’t have added anti-caking agents.
- Pasta Tips: Use quality elbow macaroni for the best texture. Avoid rinsing the pasta before adding it to the slow cooker to help the sauce cling better.
- Consistent Stirring: Stir once midway through cooking to ensure even distribution and prevent sticking.
- Adjusting Thickness: For a looser sauce, keep warm milk on hand to thin the cheese mixture if it gets too thick.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: For a baked mac and cheese feel, transfer the cooked dish to a casserole, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and broil for a few minutes.
- Serving Suggestions: This mac and cheese pairs beautifully with barbecue ribs, fried chicken, or a crisp green salad.
- Leftover Tip: Reheat leftovers with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Indulge in this no-fuss classic comfort food with rich, velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta, perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner!
Joe Miller is the passionate founder of Food Landscape Insight, where he shares his love for cooking and culinary experiences. Growing up in a family-run diner, Joe was immersed in the vibrant world of food from an early age. The kitchen became his canvas, and food, his way of storytelling.
Through years of experimentation and learning, Joe honed his skills and started his blog to inspire others to embrace the joy of cooking. Each recipe he shares is a blend of tradition, creativity, and the heartfelt memories that food brings to life, all with the aim of fostering a deeper connection to food.
