Hey y'all! If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s both ridiculously creamy and incredibly easy to make, this Crock Pot Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Easy) is just what you need. It’s a no-fuss, dump-and-go slow cooker recipe that delivers ooey-gooey cheese in every bite. Whether you're feeding a crowd, prepping for a potluck, or just craving a nostalgic dinner, this recipe has you covered. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Easy)
- Super creamy texture without any stovetop fuss.
- Set-it-and-forget-it—perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
- Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have.
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses and mix-ins.
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing every time!
Ingredients for Crock Pot Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Easy)
- 16 oz (1 pound) elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Crock Pot Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Easy)
Step 1: Prep the Crock Pot
Spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or lightly grease with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Assemble Ingredients
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, cream cheese, melted butter, dry mustard powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the Crock Pot.
Step 3: Add Milks & Mix
Pour the whole milk and evaporated milk over the ingredients. Stir everything together until well combined and all macaroni is evenly coated with the cheese mixture.
Step 4: Cook on Low
Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 2.5 hours. After 1 hour, give the mac and cheese a gentle stir to ensure even cooking. Continue cooking until the pasta is tender and the sauce is luxuriously creamy.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Once cooked, stir again, taste for seasoning, and serve immediately. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy perfection!
Notes for the Best Crock Pot Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Easy)
- For extra flavor, try using smoked cheddar or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- If the sauce appears too thick, stir in a splash of warm milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Learn more about cheese melting properties at Serious Eats.
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Easy) Variations
- Bacon Mac: Stir in 1 cup cooked, crumbled bacon before serving.
- Buffalo Mac: Add ¼ cup buffalo sauce and ½ cup blue cheese crumbles for a spicy twist.
- Veggie Mac: Fold in 1 cup steamed broccoli florets or peas at the end of cooking.
Required Equipment for Crock Pot Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Easy)
- 6-quart Crock Pot or slow cooker
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (for best results, shred your own cheese)
Storage Instructions for Crock Pot Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Easy)
Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk and microwave in short intervals, stirring often, until creamy and hot. Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate.
Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Easy)
- Pair with crispy fried chicken, BBQ pulled pork, or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
- Serve as a show-stopping side dish at holiday gatherings or potlucks.
- Top with buttery panko crumbs or extra shredded cheese for a delicious finish.
Pro Tips for the Creamiest Crock Pot Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Easy)
- Shred your own cheese for the smoothest melt and avoid pre-shredded blends which contain anti-caking agents.
- Don't overcook! Check after 2 hours; overcooked pasta can get mushy fast.
- Find more slow cooker pasta tips at The Kitchn.
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese (Creamy & Easy) FAQ
- Can I use different types of pasta?
- Yes! Small shells or cavatappi work well, just keep an eye on cook times as shapes may vary.
- Can I prepare this ahead of time?
- It's best served fresh, but you can assemble the ingredients in the Crock Pot insert (refrigerate if prepping more than 30 minutes ahead) and start cooking when ready.
- How do I keep the mac and cheese from getting grainy?
- Use freshly shredded cheese and avoid overheating. Stir occasionally for even melting. Read more about creamy cheese sauces at Bon Appétit.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2-2.5 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
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1Lightly grease the inside of the crock pot with nonstick spray or butter.
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2Add uncooked elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, whole milk, evaporated milk, melted butter, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the crock pot.
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3Stir all ingredients together until well combined.
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4Cover and cook on low for 2 hours, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking.
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5Once the pasta is tender and the cheese sauce is creamy, serve hot. Garnish with extra cheese if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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