If you’re hunting for a comforting, hands-off meal that feels like a warm hug, this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender, creamy elbow macaroni swimming in a velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and mozzarella, all slow-cooked to perfection with just the right hint of garlic and seasoning. It’s the ultimate easy dinner that blends simplicity with that indulgent homemade touch, perfect for busy nights or when you want to impress friends without fuss.

Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe right means using a handful of straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create rich flavor and inviting texture. Each item plays a special role, from the creamy mix of milks to the sharpness of the cheddar that makes every bite sing.

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked): The classic pasta shape that holds onto the cheese sauce beautifully, making every forkful satisfying.
2 ½ cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and richness, creating that luscious sauce base you crave.
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk: Gives extra body and a silky finish to your mac and cheese without watering it down.
¼ cup unsalted butter, cubed: Melts evenly for a smooth, buttery flavor and helps bind the sauce.
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: This delivers the signature tang and sharpness, turning the dish into cheesy magic.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, stringy richness without overpowering the cheddar.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth and warmth that perfectly complements the cheese.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors for balance and seasoning.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives just a hint of gentle heat and complexity to keep things interesting.

How to Make Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot

Start by lightly greasing your crockpot with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This step ensures your creamy masterpiece doesn’t cling to the sides as it cooks.

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients

Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, whole milk, evaporated milk, cubed butter, shredded sharp cheddar, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper directly into the crockpot. This method lets the pasta soak up all those rich flavors as it cooks gently over time.

Step 3: Stir to Mix

Give everything a good stir to make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This little mix helps prevent clumps and makes sure each bit of macaroni is coated in cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. During cooking, stir once or twice to keep things moving and develop that perfectly creamy texture. The pasta will soften beautifully, and the sauce will thicken into a rich, luscious coating.

Step 5: Keep Warm and Ready to Serve

When the pasta is tender and the sauce has reached its creamy peak, switch the crockpot to the “keep warm” setting until you’re ready to scoop generous helpings. This keeps your mac and cheese cozy without overcooking it.

How to Serve Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your bowl of Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe with garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a dusting of paprika for color, or a handful of crispy fried onions for fantastic crunch. Each adds a little extra flair and flavor boost.

Side Dishes

This creamy mac and cheese makes a perfect centerpiece alongside roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or savory barbecue meats like pulled pork or grilled chicken. The balance of creamy, crunchy, and fresh flavors rounds out the entire meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your mac and cheese in individual ramekins topped with breadcrumbs and broil for a minute to get a golden crust. Or turn it into a loaded casserole with cooked bacon bits, scallions, and jalapeños stirred in for a playful, bold flavor experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors will deepen, making your second-day meal just as delicious.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully. Transfer cooled mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve that creamy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your mac and cheese gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir well to revive its smooth, cheesy richness without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can swap in shells, rotini, or even penne—just keep the cooking time in mind, as different shapes may absorb liquid differently.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, by using dairy-free milk alternatives and vegan cheeses, you can create a similar creamy texture, though the flavor profile will shift slightly. Experiment with cashew cream or coconut milk for richness.

How can I make the mac and cheese spicier?

Add finely chopped jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the mix before cooking. Mixing in spicy sausage or chorizo can also amp up the heat while keeping things comforting.

What’s the best way to prevent the mac and cheese from getting watery?

Use whole and evaporated milk as the recipe suggests for creaminess without excess water. Also, avoid over-stirring during the last stages of cooking and ensure your crockpot lid fits tightly to keep moisture balanced.

Can I double this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe for a crowd?

Yes, you can double the ingredients, but ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra volume without overfilling. Cooking time might increase a little, so check pasta tenderness periodically.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is an absolute keeper that brings out all those nostalgic, cheesy comforts with ease and minimal effort. Perfect for busy days or when you want to treat yourself with zero stress, it’s a dish that’ll quickly become a beloved classic in your home. Go ahead, give it a whirl and watch your family or guests fall head over heels!

Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 6 reviews

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

Print Recipe

Description

This Crockpot Mac and Cheese recipe offers a creamy, cheesy comfort dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days or cozy dinners. Using a slow cooker, the pasta cooks slowly in a rich mixture of whole milk, evaporated milk, butter, and sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, resulting in a luscious, velvety mac and cheese without the need for constant stirring or oven use.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

Dairy

2 ½ cups whole milk
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
¼ cup unsalted butter, cubed
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 spray to prevent the mac and cheese from 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 well: Stir all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of cheese and seasonings with the pasta and liquids.
Cook the mac and cheese: Cover the crockpot and cook on the low setting for 2 to 3 hours. Stir once or twice during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The pasta should be tender and the sauce thick and creamy when done.
Keep warm and serve: Once cooked, switch the crockpot to the “keep warm” setting until you’re ready to serve to maintain the perfect creamy consistency and freshness.

Notes

Do not cook on high as it may cause the milk to curdle and the pasta to overcook.
Stirring occasionally during cooking helps prevent sticking and uneven cooking.
You can substitute sharp cheddar with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat milk and cheese.
Make sure the crockpot is properly greased to avoid cheese crust buildup on the sides.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of milk to regain creaminess.

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