Okay, gather ’round, my friends! Let’s talk about something near and dear to my heart (and my family’s bellies!): Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe. Seriously, is there anything more comforting than a big bowl of cheesy goodness? I think not!
I remember the first time I attempted this recipe. It was a disaster! I had visions of a creamy, dreamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe, but what emerged from my slow cooker was… well, let’s just say it resembled wallpaper paste more than anything edible. The noodles were mushy, the cheese was separated, and my kids looked at me like I had personally ruined mac and cheese forever. We’ve all been there, right?
But I’m stubborn, and mac and cheese is too important to give up on. So, I experimented, tweaked, and finally perfected a Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe that’s not only incredibly easy but also consistently delicious. Now, this recipe is a regular feature at our family gatherings, potlucks, and even just those “I don’t feel like cooking” weeknights. It’s truly a lifesaver for busy families like mine. I first started making this recipe about 5 years ago, wanting to perfect an easy mac and cheese crockpot for the holidays and it was a huge success, everyone loved it!
The best part? It’s mostly hands-off. You just dump everything in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it (almost!). This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe has saved my sanity on countless occasions. I mean, who doesn’t love coming home to a warm, comforting meal after a long day? For another slow cooker favorite, check out this spicy buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe that adds a kick to your regular mac.
My cooking philosophy is all about making delicious, family-friendly food that doesn’t require you to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. I love recipes that are easy to adapt, use simple ingredients, and always deliver on flavor. And this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe checks all those boxes! And if you are thinking you might want a simple dip or dessert after this, you should try my caramel apple cheesecake dip recipe.
So, grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! I promise you, this will become your go-to mac and cheese recipe. You can also find out more about the history of mac and cheese online and it is one of the most popular american foods around the world. Ready to make some cheesy magic? Let’s go!
What You’ll Need for This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe
Alright, let’s talk ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe masterpiece. This is all pretty standard stuff, but I’ll share a few of my secrets for making it extra special.
- 1 pound elbow macaroni: I always use regular elbow macaroni for my Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe, but you can experiment with other shapes if you like. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: This is where you can really customize it! I like a sharp cheddar, but you can use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a little bit of pepper jack for a kick. For the cheesiest crockpot mac and cheese, make sure to use high quality cheese.
- 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk: This is key for that creamy texture. Don’t skip it!
- 2 cups milk: I use whole milk, but you can use 2% if you prefer.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted: Butter is essential for richness and flavor.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: These help bind everything together and create a lovely texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Don’t underestimate the power of salt! It really brings out the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a subtle but delicious savory note.
- Optional: Breadcrumbs and melted butter for topping: This adds a nice crunch, but it’s totally optional.
When making Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe, I always buy block cheese and shred it myself. It melts much better than the pre-shredded stuff, which is coated in cellulose to prevent clumping. You can usually find good quality block cheese at your local grocery store. Here’s a Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe trick I learned from my grandma: add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce. It’s a subtle flavor, but it really elevates the dish!
Here’s a cost-saving tip for Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe ingredients: buy cheese in bulk when it’s on sale and freeze it. You can also use store-brand macaroni, which is usually just as good as the name-brand stuff.
For storing leftover Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe ingredients, keep the cheese tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. The milk and butter should also be refrigerated, of course. As for the macaroni, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Now, for some ideas on what other cheeses to use, check out Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese.
Let’s Make This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe Together
Okay, now for the fun part! Let’s get down to business and make this amazing Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe together. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!
- Grease your slow cooker: This is important to prevent the mac and cheese from sticking to the bottom. I usually use cooking spray, but you can also use butter.
- Cook the macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions, but cook for 2 minutes LESS than what the directions say. You want it to be slightly undercooked, as it will continue to cook in the slow cooker. Drain well.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, evaporated milk, milk, melted butter, eggs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
- Pour into the slow cooker: Pour the macaroni mixture into the greased slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the mac and cheese is bubbly and the cheese is melted and creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. I learned the hard way with Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe that you should only stir occasionally because stirring too often will make the mac and cheese turn out more gooey and wet.
- Optional: Add breadcrumb topping: If you want to add a breadcrumb topping, mix together breadcrumbs and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve and enjoy! Once the mac and cheese is cooked to your liking, remove it from the slow cooker and serve immediately.
Don’t worry if your Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe looks a little soupy at first. It will thicken up as it cools. I learned this from my mom who taught me how to cook! In my kitchen, Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe usually takes about 2 1/2 hours to cook on low. But the time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it.
While the Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is cooking, I usually take the opportunity to catch up on some reading, do some laundry, or just relax with a cup of tea. I have also learned that for the creamiest crockpot mac and cheese, you cannot leave it on high for a longer time. Your Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe should smell like cheesy, buttery goodness! If it smells burnt, it’s time to turn it off. If you’d like to see another simple mac and cheese recipe, check out this The Best Crock Pot Mac and Cheese – Southern Bite.
How I Love to Serve This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe
Now that you’ve made this glorious Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe, let’s talk about how to serve it! My family loves this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe when I make it a part of a bigger meal!
My family loves this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe when I serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or hamburgers. It’s also great with pulled pork or chili. And of course, it’s always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
Some of my go-to side dishes that pair with Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe include a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. The freshness of the vegetables helps to balance out the richness of the mac and cheese. A fresh salad is always good with this type of food, because of the different textures and flavors.
This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a fancy holiday feast. It’s especially great for parties because you can make it ahead of time and keep it warm in the slow cooker until you’re ready to serve it. You can serve this easy mac and cheese crockpot right out of the slow cooker. I like to garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of hot sauce.
If you have extra Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy consistency. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. I also love making this homemade mac and cheese crockpot for all the kids at Thanksgiving and Christmas! I feel like the kids really enjoy the creamy crockpot mac and cheese recipe.
Friends always ask for this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe recipe, so I know it’s a winner. And if you want to jazz it up a bit, try adding some cooked bacon, chopped ham, or diced tomatoes. Another twist is to add some hot sauce or sriracha for a spicy kick. For another flavor option for a creamy crockpot mac and cheese, read Crock Pot Mac and Cheese – Brown Eyed Baker.
Your Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe Questions Answered
Okay, let’s tackle some of the most common questions I get about this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe. I’ve definitely learned a few things the hard way, so I’m happy to share my wisdom!
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! I encourage you to experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination. Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can also use Gruyere, Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a little bit of pepper jack for a kick. Just make sure the cheese melts well.
- Can I use pre-shredded cheese? I don’t recommend it. Pre-shredded cheese is often coated in cellulose to prevent clumping, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. It’s always best to shred your own cheese for the best results.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can! You can assemble the mac and cheese in the slow cooker up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and then cook it according to the recipe instructions.
- Can I freeze this mac and cheese? Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- My mac and cheese is too dry. What can I do? If your mac and cheese is too dry, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy consistency. You can also add a little bit of melted butter.
- My mac and cheese is too soupy. What can I do? If your mac and cheese is too soupy, remove the lid from the slow cooker and cook it for an additional 30 minutes to allow some of the excess liquid to evaporate.
- Can I add any vegetables to this recipe? Definitely! Some great additions include steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach. Just add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking so they don’t get too mushy.
You know what I do when my Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is too thick? I add a little bit of milk or cream to thin it out. You can also add a little bit of melted butter for extra richness. Someone asked me recently, “I want to try a vegan version. What do you suggest?” To which I answered, “Use plant based milk and butter and it will taste just the same!” Remember with a Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe, you will have some trial and error to find the perfect recipe!
My Final Thoughts on This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe isn’t just a recipe to me; it’s a memory maker, a comfort food champion, and a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. It reminds me of simpler times, of family gatherings filled with laughter and love, and of the joy of sharing a good meal with the people you care about.
So here are my final pro tips on this:
- My Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the macaroni! Slightly undercooked is the way to go.
- My Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe Pro Tip: Shred your own cheese for the best melting results.
- My Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and toppings.
Here are some Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe variations I’ve tried with my family:
- Bacon Cheddar Mac: Add cooked bacon crumbles for a smoky flavor.
- Spicy Jalapeño Mac: Add diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
- Broccoli Cheddar Mac: Add steamed broccoli florets for a healthy twist.
My husband loves the Bacon Cheddar Mac, while my kids are partial to the classic version. I personally enjoy the Spicy Jalapeño Mac when I’m in the mood for something with a little bit of a kick.
I really hope you and your family enjoy this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe as much as we do. It’s a simple, comforting, and endlessly customizable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Let this be the beginning of your amazing Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe journey! Don’t be afraid to experiment, tweak, and make it your own. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process!
Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Crockpot Mac and Cheese recipe is incredibly creamy and cheesy, perfect for a comforting family dinner or potluck. Simply throw the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it work its magic!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Total Time: 195 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
- 3 cups milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Grease a 6-quart slow cooker.
- In the slow cooker, combine the uncooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, milk, melted butter, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the milk mixture over the macaroni and cheese in the slow cooker.
- Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the macaroni is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly, stirring occasionally.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For an extra creamy mac and cheese, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.