Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese is ultra-creamy, cheesy, and comforting—perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners with minimal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Boiling Required: Everything cooks right in the crockpot—no need to pre-cook the pasta.
Ultra Creamy Texture: Slow cooking gives the cheese sauce a rich, velvety consistency.

Hands-Off Cooking: Set it and forget it—perfect for busy days or multitasking.
Crowd Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Customizable Flavors: Easily add spices, mix-ins, or swap cheeses.

Potluck-Ready: Travels well and stays warm in the slow cooker.
One-Pot Meal: Minimal dishes, maximum satisfaction.
Perfect Comfort Food: Ideal for cold weather or cozy nights.

Flexible Timing: Great for making ahead or holding on warm.
No Fancy Ingredients: Simple pantry staples and classic cheeses.

Ingredients

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard (optional)

Directions

Spray the inside of your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray.
Add uncooked elbow macaroni, evaporated milk, whole milk, melted butter, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard.
Stir well until everything is fully combined.

Cover and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, stirring every 30–45 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
When the pasta is tender and the sauce is smooth and creamy, turn off the heat.
Serve immediately or switch to the “keep warm” setting until ready to eat.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Calories Per Serving: ~420 kcal

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

Bacon Lovers: Stir in crumbled cooked bacon before serving.
Four-Cheese Blend: Mix in Monterey Jack, gouda, or fontina with the cheddar.
Cream Cheese Boost: Add 2 oz of cream cheese for extra richness.

Garlic Herb Flavor: Stir in garlic powder, parsley, or thyme.
Breadcrumb Topping: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on individual servings for a crunchy contrast.
Buffalo Mac: Stir in hot sauce and shredded rotisserie chicken for a spicy twist.

Veggie Mix-In: Add peas, spinach, or cooked broccoli for a wholesome touch.
Smoked Cheese Flavor: Try smoked gouda or smoked cheddar for added depth.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and check labels on all other ingredients.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back creaminess.
Freezing: Not recommended, as dairy-based sauces may separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I Use Pre-Shredded Cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a creamier sauce.

Can I Cook This On High Instead Of Low?

It’s best cooked on low to avoid overcooking the pasta and separating the cheese sauce.

Will The Pasta Get Mushy?

If cooked longer than 3 hours, it may become too soft. Stir occasionally and check at the 2-hour mark.

Can I Use Different Types Of Pasta?

Yes, just adjust the cook time slightly if using larger or thicker noodles.

How Do I Keep It From Getting Dry?

Stir regularly and avoid cooking too long. You can add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Can I Add Meat To Make It A Main Dish?

Absolutely—add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken to make it more filling.

Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?

It’s best fresh, as the creamy sauce may break after freezing and reheating.

Can I Use Plant-Based Milk?

You can substitute non-dairy milk, but results may vary. Avoid sweetened or flavored versions.

What’s The Best Cheese Combination?

Sharp cheddar for flavor, mozzarella for meltiness, and a touch of cream cheese for richness.

Can I Double The Recipe?

Yes, use a 6–8 quart slow cooker and increase cook time slightly. Stir more frequently to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Macaroni And Cheese is the definition of easy comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and practically effortless. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, potluck, or holiday meal, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. With simple ingredients, rich flavor, and a perfect slow-cooked texture, this recipe will become a go-to favorite for years to come.

Try These Comfort Food Favorites Next

If you loved the creamy indulgence of our Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese, there’s a whole world of cozy, cheesy recipes waiting for you. Start with our ultra-decadent 5 Cheese Crack and Cheese — an oven-baked version packed with melty layers. Craving something with a Southern twist? The Cheesy Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole combines sweet, savory, and cheesy in every bite. For easy weeknight inspiration, the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta delivers rich flavor with minimal prep. Our Creamy Basil Tomato Chicken Pasta Bake is a satisfying family-style dish perfect for potlucks or meal prep. And don’t miss our unique Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups — a pull-apart side dish that pairs wonderfully with pasta nights.

These delicious comfort meals are perfect to bookmark for dinner rotations, holiday spreads, or anytime you’re feeding a crowd.

Crockpot Macaroni And Cheese

Author: Chef Clara

Print Recipe

Description

Ultra creamy, cheesy, and comforting — this slow cooker mac and cheese is the ultimate no-fuss comfort food. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
Add the uncooked macaroni, evaporated milk, whole milk, melted butter, cheddar cheese, mozzarella, salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard to the crockpot.
Stir all ingredients until well combined.

Cover and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Once the pasta is tender and the cheese sauce is creamy and smooth, turn off the heat.
Serve warm straight from the crockpot, or switch to the “keep warm” setting until ready to serve.

Notes

Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent the pasta from clumping or sticking to the bottom.
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and texture.
Can be customized with different cheeses or added proteins like ham or bacon.