Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This Crockpot Mac and Cheese recipe brings creamy, cheesy comfort food to your fingertips with minimal effort. Using simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can enjoy a rich and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 3 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a slow cooker, combine the drained macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, whole milk, butter, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix all ingredients.
3. Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is creamy and heated through. If the mac and cheese is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
4. Step 4: Serve hot and enjoy your creamy crockpot mac and cheese!

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of garlic powder before cooking.
• Use different cheese blends like gouda or pepper jack for a twist on the classic taste.
• Stir in cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions for additional texture and flavor.
• If your slow cooker runs hot, check mac and cheese at 2 hours to prevent burning.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use other short pasta shapes such as shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the pasta is al dente before adding to the slow cooker.

Is it possible to make this mac and cheese without a slow cooker?

Absolutely. You can prepare it on the stovetop by cooking the pasta, then combining all ingredients in a large pot over low heat. Stir frequently until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.

Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 187 reviews

• Author: Gabriel
• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Crockpot Mac and Cheese recipe offers a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Combining elbow macaroni with sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, enriched with whole milk and butter, it delivers a rich, flavorful dish perfect for easy weeknight dinners or gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 2 cups elbow macaroni

Cheese & Dairy

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 3 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp butter

Seasonings

• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside to prevent overcooking in the slow cooker.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In your slow cooker, add the cooked macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, whole milk, butter, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to distribute ingredients evenly.
3. Slow Cook the Mac and Cheese: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the mixture on low heat for 2 to 3 hours. Stir every 30 minutes or so to prevent sticking and ensure creaminess. If the mac and cheese becomes too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
4. Serve: Once the cheese is fully melted and the dish is hot and creamy, serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• For a thicker mac and cheese, reduce the cooking time slightly or add less milk.
• Add breadcrumbs or extra cheese on top before serving for added texture.
• Ensure macaroni is not overcooked during the boiling step to avoid mushy pasta in the slow cooker.
• Feel free to customize with additional spices like paprika or mustard powder for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: mac and cheese, crockpot mac and cheese, slow cooker mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy comfort food