If you are craving a comforting, creamy, and utterly irresistible dish, this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender elbow macaroni swimming in a velvety sauce made from sharp cheddar and melty mozzarella, all slow-cooked to perfection without any fuss. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, and best of all, it requires minimal hands-on time thanks to the magic of the crockpot. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want an easy but satisfying meal, this recipe hits every note for flavor and simplicity.

Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe lies in its simple ingredient list, each component playing a crucial role in creating that creamy, flavorful finish. These basics offer the perfect balance of richness, texture, and that classic cheesiness that everyone loves.

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked): The ideal pasta shape to hold all that cheesy goodness in every bite.
2 ½ cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a luscious, thick sauce.
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk: Concentrates the dairy flavor while lending extra creaminess.
¼ cup unsalted butter, cubed: Enhances richness and smooths out the sauce texture beautifully.
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides that classic, tangy mac and cheese flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretchy creaminess and mild sweetness.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle hint of savory depth that complements the cheese.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances and brings out the flavors.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth without overpowering the dish.

How to Make Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot

Start by lightly greasing your crockpot with a bit of butter or nonstick spray. This small step is essential to ensure your cheesy masterpiece doesn’t stick to the sides and clean-up stays hassle-free.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the uncooked elbow macaroni, whole milk, evaporated milk, cubed butter, shredded cheddar and mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly right in the crockpot, so all those flavors and textures meld perfectly as it cooks.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the crockpot and cook on the low setting for 2 to 3 hours. Stir once or twice during cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking and to help the cheese melt evenly. You’re looking for tender pasta enveloped in a thick, creamy sauce that’s begging to be devoured.

Step 4: Keep Warm and Ready to Serve

Once the mac and cheese is perfectly cooked, switch your crockpot to the “keep warm” setting. This way, the dish stays cozy without overcooking as you get everything else ready for the table.

How to Serve Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate this classic comfort dish by sprinkling some crunchy breadcrumbs or crispy bacon bits on top right before serving. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a hint of brightness that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.

Side Dishes

Serve your Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. A tangy coleslaw or some steamed broccoli also make excellent companions, adding texture and freshness to each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, scoop your mac and cheese into individual ramekins and bake with a golden breadcrumb topping for a crispy crust. Alternatively, try stirring in cooked grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal that still feels like a special treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the pasta stays fresh without drying out or becoming overly sticky.

Freezing

You can freeze the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture might be a little softer upon thawing, but it still makes for a quick and delicious comfort meal anytime you need one.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the mac and cheese on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of milk and stir well to bring back that creamy texture, ensuring every bite tastes just as indulgent as when it was freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and mozzarella offer a classic flavor and texture, feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or fontina for a delicious variation.

Is it necessary to use evaporated milk?

Evaporated milk adds extra creaminess and richness, but you can substitute with heavy cream or more whole milk if you prefer. Just expect a slight difference in texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the mac and cheese from drying out in the crockpot?

Cooking on low and stirring once or twice helps keep the pasta moist and the sauce creamy. Also, lightly greasing the crockpot before adding ingredients helps prevent sticking and drying.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegetarian as long as you use cheese made without animal rennet. Add in veggies like spinach or roasted peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.

What should I do if my mac and cheese is too thick after cooking?

If it seems too thick, simply stir in a little more milk or even a splash of cream until you reach your desired creamy consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl, blending creamy cheeses, tender pasta, and savory seasonings into one effortless meal that feels like homemade magic. Give it a try on your next cozy night in—you might just find it becoming a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 16 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Crockpot Mac and Cheese recipe is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Combining elbow macaroni with sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, whole milk, evaporated milk, and a blend of seasonings, it delivers rich flavors and a perfectly tender texture after cooking low and slow. Ideal for easy weeknight meals or gatherings, this recipe requires minimal prep and hands-off cooking while ensuring a warm, gooey mac and cheese that’s irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Macaroni and Dairy

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
2 ½ cups whole milk
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
¼ cup unsalted butter, cubed

Cheeses

3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasonings

½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the crockpot: Lightly grease your crockpot with butter or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking during cooking.
Combine ingredients: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, whole milk, evaporated milk, cubed butter, shredded sharp cheddar, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper into the crockpot.
Mix ingredients: Stir all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are evenly combined for consistent flavor and cooking.
Cook the mac and cheese: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours. Stir once or twice during cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking and to help the sauce thicken. Cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy.
Keep warm before serving: Once cooked, switch the crockpot setting to ‘keep warm’ until you are ready to serve the mac and cheese, maintaining its ideal temperature and texture.

Notes

Stir occasionally during cooking to avoid pasta sticking to the bottom.
Use sharp cheddar for a more flavorful, classic taste.
Adjust garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste depending on preference.
If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.
For a crispy topping, transfer cooked mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil briefly before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American