Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crock Pot Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness. It’s packed with layers of gooey cheese and creamy sauce, and it’s made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, cooking the pasta and cheese to perfection while you go about your day. The result is a smooth, velvety mac and cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or any time you’re craving a warm, comforting dish.

Ingredients

1 pound elbow macaroni (uncooked)
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup butter, cubed
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Crock Pot:
- Lightly grease the bottom and sides of the Crock Pot insert to prevent the mac and cheese from sticking.
Add Ingredients:
- Place the uncooked elbow macaroni into the Crock Pot. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, evaporated milk, whole milk, cubed butter, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
Cook the Mac and Cheese:
- Cover the Crock Pot with the lid and cook on low for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure the cheese melts evenly and the pasta cooks thoroughly. Be sure to check the pasta for doneness after about 2 hours to prevent overcooking.
Finish and Serve:
- Once the pasta is tender and the cheese has melted into a creamy sauce, give the mac and cheese one last stir. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 2-2.5 hours on low
Total time: 2 hours 5 minutes – 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even cream cheese for added creaminess.
Creamier Mac and Cheese: For extra creaminess, add a bit of cream cheese or increase the amount of evaporated milk.
Vegetarian: Keep it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of any meat-based

Storage/reheating

Storage: Leftover Crock Pot Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm the mac and cheese in the microwave or on the stovetop. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and remains creamy.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked pasta in this recipe?

For best results, it’s recommended to use uncooked pasta as the slow cooker will cook the pasta and absorb all the cheese sauce flavors. Pre-cooked pasta will likely become mushy.

How can I make this mac and cheese more creamy?

To make the mac and cheese even creamier, try adding a small block of cream cheese or extra butter to the mix. A splash of heavy cream will also add to the richness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the Crock Pot on low, adding a little extra milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne or shells instead of elbow macaroni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the size of the pasta.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free, like the milk and cheese.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even Parmesan for a different flavor profile. Just make sure you have enough cheese to create a creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy as it is delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a party, or just craving a comforting meal, this slow-cooker mac and cheese will become a go-to favorite. Let your Crock Pot do the hard work, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Crock Pot Mac and Cheese