Crockpot Mac and Cheese

A Comforting Classic Made Easy

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy, cheesy mac and cheese to warm your soul. Whether it’s a chilly evening, a family gathering, or just a craving for some homemade comfort food, this crockpot mac and cheese recipe is the perfect solution. No need to stand over a stove stirring for hours—just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do the work!

I love making this recipe on busy weeknights when I need a hands-off meal that still feels indulgent. It’s also a fantastic dish for potlucks, game days, or holiday feasts.

Plus, since it’s made in the crockpot, it frees up your stove and oven for other delicious dishes. The best part? The cheese melts into a smooth, velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta perfectly.

If you’re a fan of rich, creamy, and ultra-cheesy mac and cheese, you’re in for a treat! This recipe is a staple in my kitchen, especially when the weather turns cool and cozy meals are a must.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and hands-off – The crockpot does all the work, making this recipe perfect for busy days.
• Ultra creamy and cheesy – A blend of cheeses melts perfectly into a luscious, velvety sauce.
• Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you need to feed a hungry group.
• Customizable – Add bacon, jalapeños, or even a crispy topping for extra texture and flavor.

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Ingredients List

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 2 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky flavor)
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional, enhances the cheesy taste)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)
• 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese (cubed)

Optional Toppings & Add-Ins:

• ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for extra flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a little heat)

This crockpot mac and cheese recipe is incredibly easy to customize. Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends or add protein like shredded chicken for a heartier meal!

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Kitchen Tools Needed

• Crockpot (Slow Cooker) – The main cooking vessel that allows for slow, even cooking and prevents burning.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Essential for accurate ingredient portions to maintain the perfect consistency.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – Helps mix the ingredients gently without scratching the crockpot.
• Cheese Grater – Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents.
• Cutting Board & Knife – Needed for cubing butter and cream cheese for even melting.
• Colander – For rinsing and draining the cooked pasta before adding it to the crockpot.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Shred all the cheeses if not pre-shredded.
• Cut the butter and cream cheese into small cubes for even melting.
• Measure out the milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

• Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions but undercook it by about 1-2 minutes to prevent mushy pasta.
• Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 3: Assemble in the Crockpot

• Grease the crockpot with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• Add the cooked pasta, shredded cheeses (reserving 1 cup cheddar for later), butter, cream cheese, salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder.
• Pour in the milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. Stir everything gently to combine.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Mac and Cheese

• Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure even melting and prevent clumping.
• In the last 30 minutes, add the reserved 1 cup of cheddar cheese and mix it in for extra creaminess.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

• Once the mac and cheese is smooth and creamy, turn off the crockpot.
• If using toppings, sprinkle bacon or breadcrumbs over the top.
• Serve hot and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!

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Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions:

• Cheddar Cheese → Use Colby Jack, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese → Try provolone or Swiss for a different texture.
• Heavy Cream → Replace with half-and-half or additional whole milk for a lighter option.
• Evaporated Milk → Swap with an extra cup of whole milk, though it won’t be as rich.
• Butter → Use margarine or plant-based butter for a dairy-free alternative.

Variations:

• Spicy Mac & Cheese – Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce.
• Meaty Mac & Cheese – Mix in shredded chicken, crumbled sausage, or chopped ham.
• Vegetable Mac & Cheese – Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Baked Mac & Cheese – Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and broil for a crispy crust.

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Serving Suggestions

1. With a Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the richness of the mac and cheese.
2. Paired with BBQ Ribs or Chicken – The creamy texture pairs perfectly with smoky BBQ flavors.
3. With Garlic Bread – A warm, buttery slice of garlic bread makes a great addition.
4. Topped with Crispy Bacon – Adds crunch and a savory touch.
5. As a Holiday Side Dish – Serve alongside turkey, ham, or roast beef for a festive meal.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat on Stovetop: Add a splash of milk and warm on low heat, stirring frequently.
• Reheat in Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent drying out.

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FAQ

1. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but fresh cheese melts better since pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything in the crockpot and refrigerate until ready to cook.

3. How do I prevent mushy pasta?

Undercook the pasta by 1-2 minutes before adding it to the crockpot.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

5. What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?

A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan creates the best flavor.

6. Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just use a larger crockpot and increase cooking time slightly.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!