Crockpot Mac & Cheese

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If you’re looking for a creamy, rich, no-fuss way to enjoy comfort food at its finest, this Crockpot Mac & Cheese will be your go-to. This ultra-cheesy, ultra-creamy dish is made right in the slow cooker with minimal prep and zero oven time. Perfect for weeknights, holiday feasts, or potluck dinners, it brings all the nostalgic flavor of baked mac without the dry edges or babysitting.

The beauty of this dish is in its texture: velvety smooth cheese sauce hugs every twist of tender pasta, while a golden cheddar crown melts into the top. It’s decadent enough for special occasions yet simple enough to become a household staple.

What Kind of Cheese Is Best for Crockpot Mac & Cheese?

While many recipes rely solely on cheddar, the best flavor and meltability come from a mix. Use sharp cheddar for that classic mac flavor, cream cheese for a luscious finish, and a touch of mozzarella or Monterey Jack for silky smoothness. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses—they often contain anti-caking agents that affect texture.

Ingredients for the Crockpot Mac & Cheese

• Elbow Macaroni: Holds the creamy cheese sauce beautifully and stays tender without becoming mushy.
• Evaporated Milk: Brings a rich, slightly sweet dairy base that won’t curdle in the crockpot.
• Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and thins out the sauce to the right consistency.
• Butter: Helps bind the sauce and adds a touch of indulgence.
• Cream Cheese: The secret to making it ultra-smooth and velvety.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Gives bold cheesy flavor and classic mac color.
• Mozzarella or Monterey Jack: Melts perfectly for that stringy, stretchy pull.
• Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Paprika: Simple seasonings that elevate the overall flavor profile.

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How To Make the Crockpot Mac & Cheese

Step 1: Prep the Pasta

Boil the elbow macaroni for 5 minutes—just until slightly underdone. Drain and set aside. This keeps the pasta from getting mushy while it cooks in the crockpot.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Base

In a mixing bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, whole milk, melted butter, and softened cream cheese. Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

In a greased crockpot, add the drained pasta and pour the milk mixture over it. Add the shredded cheeses and stir gently to combine.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring once or twice. Once the cheese is fully melted and everything is creamy and bubbling, it’s ready to serve.

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Serving and Storing Crockpot Mac & Cheese

This dish is best served hot, straight from the crockpot. If you’re serving for a gathering, keep it on the warm setting and stir occasionally to maintain creaminess. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.

What to Serve With Crockpot Mac & Cheese?

Fried Chicken

Crispy, juicy fried chicken is a match made in comfort food heaven.

Green Beans or Roasted Veggies

Add balance and color with roasted Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or green beans.

BBQ Pulled Pork

The smokiness of pulled pork pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cheese.

Garlic Bread

Soak up every last bit of cheesy sauce with warm, buttery garlic bread.

Coleslaw

A crisp, tangy coleslaw helps cut through the creaminess.

Tomato Soup

A nostalgic combo that brings back childhood joy with every bite.

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Want More Pasta & Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love this crockpot mac & cheese, you’ll enjoy diving into these cheesy, hearty classics too:

• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells for a green-filled, creamy pasta bake.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta if you want a meatier twist on comfort.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole that’s as rich and decadent as it sounds.
• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a family-friendly meal with texture and heartiness.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole when you crave layers of cheese, ham, and chicken in every bite.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go all cheddar or blend in some Monterey Jack? Did you top it with breadcrumbs?

I love hearing your twists on my favorites. Share your questions and kitchen wins too—we’re all in this together.

Explore more comfort food favorites and cheesy inspirations on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest and discover your next favorite recipe.

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