Crockpot Mac and Cheese is like wrapping your hands around a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Just toss al dente macaroni, velvety cheddar, creamy mozzarella, a splash of dairy-rich milk, and a hint of mustard powder into your slow cooker. Stir in a touch of garlic powder and paprika for that warm, smoky whisper. Set it on low, wander off to sip coffee or catch up on your favorite book, then return to golden-bubbly bliss. Every spoonful melts into gooey happiness, making dinner feel like a warm hug. This playful twist on a classic guarantees grins and second helpings. Enjoy!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Mac and Cheese
- Effortless preparation—just toss in the ingredients and let the magic happen.
- Rich, creamy texture that hugs every noodle, making it a hug in a bowl.
- Perfect for gatherings—everyone will be asking for seconds!
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses and add-ins for a personal touch.
- Leftovers (if there are any) reheat beautifully for a quick meal later.
Crockpot Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by spraying the inside of a 4- or 5-quart crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This will help keep your mac and cheese from sticking!
- Next, add uncooked elbow macaroni, melted butter, evaporated milk, whole milk, cream cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika to the crockpot. It’s a cheesy party in there!
- Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients. Make sure the macaroni is well-coated and ready to soak up all that creamy goodness.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours. Don’t forget to stir once halfway through to prevent sticking. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- When the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until it’s all melted and creamy. Yum!
- Serve hot and garnish with extra cheese or chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Crockpot Mac and Cheese!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbs | 30g |
Ingredients for Crockpot Mac and Cheese
Gather these delicious ingredients to create the ultimate comfort dish, Crockpot Mac and Cheese!
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni – your pasta base
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – for that rich, cheesy flavor
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – adds creaminess
- 1 cup evaporated milk – creaminess and depth
- 2 cups whole milk – for that luscious texture
- 4 tablespoons butter – rich and buttery taste
- 4 ounces cream cheese – for extra creaminess
- 1 teaspoon salt – to enhance flavors
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – add a touch of heat
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional) – for a little smoky flavor
How to Make Crockpot Mac and Cheese
Get ready for a creamy, cheesy delight! This Crockpot Mac and Cheese is perfect for a cozy night in. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 2 to 3 hours, you’ll have a comforting dish that’s sure to please. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Spray the Crockpot
Start by spraying the inside of a 4- or 5-quart crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This will help keep your mac and cheese from sticking!
Step 2: Add Ingredients
Next, add uncooked elbow macaroni, melted butter, evaporated milk, whole milk, cream cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika to the crockpot. It’s a cheesy party in there!
Step 3: Stir Thoroughly
Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients. Make sure the macaroni is well-coated and ready to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Step 4: Cook on LOW
Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours. Don’t forget to stir once halfway through to prevent sticking. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 5: Add Cheese
When the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until it’s all melted and creamy. Yum!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot and garnish with extra cheese or chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Crockpot Mac and Cheese!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 180 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 190 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 6 |
| Best Served | Hot and creamy |
Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Mac and Cheese
- Choose a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor.
- Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness.
- Add a splash of milk for creaminess before serving.
- Stir occasionally for even cooking and melting.
- Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
How to Serve this Crockpot Mac and Cheese
- Top with crispy breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a veggie boost.
- Add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein and heartiness.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
- Offer a side of garlic bread for a comforting, carb-loaded experience.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Serve in individual bowls for a fun, personalized touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your Crockpot Mac and Cheese later is easy!
Storing Crockpot Mac and Cheese Leftovers
- Let the mac and cheese cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Freezing Crockpot Mac and Cheese
- Cool completely before freezing.
- Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Crockpot Mac and Cheese
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add a splash of milk for creaminess if needed.
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Can you make mac and cheese in the slow cooker?
Absolutely! Making mac and cheese in a slow cooker is not only possible but also incredibly easy. The slow cooker allows the cheese to melt perfectly, creating a creamy and delicious dish. Just combine your ingredients, set it on low, and let it do the work for you!
2. Can you put raw pasta in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can put raw pasta in a slow cooker! Just make sure to add enough liquid to cook the pasta properly. The slow cooker will gradually heat the ingredients, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors and become tender. It’s a great way to simplify the cooking process!
3. How do you cook mac and cheese in a slow cooker Southern Living?
To cook mac and cheese in a slow cooker, start by combining uncooked pasta, cheese, milk, and any seasonings in the slow cooker. Stir everything together, cover, and cook on low for about 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. This method ensures a creamy texture and rich flavor, just like Southern Living recipes!
4. What not to do when making mac and cheese?
When making mac and cheese, avoid overcooking the pasta, as it can become mushy. Also, be careful not to add too much liquid, which can make the dish soupy. Lastly, don’t skimp on the cheese! Using a variety of cheeses can enhance the flavor and creaminess of your mac and cheese, so go ahead and indulge!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Crockpot Mac and Cheese to bring back those cozy childhood memories! This dish is not only simple to make but also incredibly rewarding. So grab your favorite cheese, set your Crockpot, and let the magic happen. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite—you deserve it!