Description
This creamy Mac & Cheese Crockpot Magic recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese, slow-cooked to perfection. With minimal prep and easy stovetop-free cooking, it’s a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Dairy
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Seasonings & Optional Toppings
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: paprika, hot sauce, or cooked crumbled bacon for topping
Instructions
- Grease the crockpot: Lightly spray or butter the inside of your slow cooker to prevent sticking, ensuring easy cleanup and preventing the pasta from sticking to the sides.
- Add everything in: Place uncooked elbow macaroni, whole milk, evaporated milk, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, cubed cream cheese, unsalted butter, garlic powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and black pepper into the crockpot. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cook on LOW: Cover the crockpot and cook on the LOW setting for 2 to 2.5 hours. Stir the mixture every 30 to 45 minutes to prevent sticking and to help the cheese sauce become creamy while the pasta cooks tenderly. Avoid cooking on HIGH as it may overcook the pasta.
- Finish & serve: Once the pasta is tender and the cheese sauce is thick and creamy, give the mac and cheese one final good stir. Serve immediately, optionally topped with extra shredded cheese, crispy bacon, paprika, or a dash of hot sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Do not use the HIGH setting as it can cause the pasta to overcook and become mushy.
- Stirring occasionally is important to prevent the pasta from sticking to the crockpot sides and to ensure even cooking.
- You can customize the toppings with crispy bacon, paprika, or hot sauce to add extra flavor and texture.
- For a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of milk slightly or add more cheese at the end.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
