Few dishes comfort the soul quite like a bowl of creamy, cheesy mac and cheese—and with this Crockpot Mac and Cheese recipe, you can achieve that rich, velvety texture without lifting a finger after prep. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, potluck, holiday side, or an easy weeknight meal, this slow cooker mac and cheese is a set-it-and-forget-it classic that delivers ultra-creamy results every single time.
No boiling. No roux. No baking. Just dump, stir, and slow cook your way to cheesy perfection.
💛 Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Mac and Cheese
- ✔️ Easy dump-and-go recipe
- ✔️ No oven or boiling required
- ✔️ Extra creamy texture
- ✔️ Perfect for crowds
- ✔️ Kid-approved and freezer-friendly
🍽️ Recommended Kitchen Tools
- 4–6 quart slow cooker (Crockpot)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (if shredding cheese from a block)
- Mixing bowl (optional)
🧂 Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded is best)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
- Pinch of paprika or cayenne (optional for spice)
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the Crockpot
Lightly spray the inside of your Crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Combine All Ingredients
Add the uncooked macaroni, shredded cheeses, evaporated milk, whole milk, sour cream, and butter to the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
Tip: For the creamiest texture, shred your cheese fresh instead of using pre-shredded.
3. Mix & Set
Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Cook on Low
Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 2½ hours, stirring every 30–45 minutes if possible. You’ll know it’s done when the pasta is tender and the sauce is thick and creamy.
Do not overcook! The cheese can break down and become grainy if left too long.
5. Serve Warm
Give it a final stir, taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot with extra cheese on top, chopped herbs, or breadcrumbs for crunch.
🔁 Recipe Variations
- 🧄 Garlic Herb: Add 1 tsp Italian seasoning or fresh minced garlic.
- 🌶️ Spicy Kick: Stir in chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Loaded Mac: Add green onions, or shredded chicken.
- 🧀 Four-Cheese Blend: Use a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, and parmesan.
- 🌿 Vegetarian Deluxe: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas.
🥗 Make It Fit Your Diet
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free macaroni noodles.
- Lower Fat: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cheese, dairy-free milk, and vegan butter alternatives.
❄️ Storage & Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled mac and cheese in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheat: Add a splash of milk before reheating in the microwave or stovetop to restore creaminess.
📝 Expert Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese to avoid graininess or clumping.
- Stir every 30–45 minutes if you’re home—it helps distribute heat and keeps the pasta from sticking.
- Use whole milk for maximum creaminess; skim milk won’t give the same rich texture.
- Cook on low, never high. High heat can ruin the texture and dry out the dish.
- Serve immediately for the best cheesy stretch and flavor!
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Pair this indulgent Crockpot Mac and Cheese with:
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork
- Crispy fried chicken
- Roasted veggies
- A fresh green salad
- Cornbread or garlic toast
It also shines on any holiday table—from Thanksgiving to Easter to Sunday dinners.
📌 Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Creamy Mac and Cheese is everything comfort food should be—simple, soul-satisfying, and rich with flavor. With just a few steps and your slow cooker doing all the work, you’ll enjoy a homemade, ultra-cheesy dish that tastes like it came from a Southern kitchen.
Perfect for busy families, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this is a no-fail recipe you’ll want to make again and again. And trust us—it always disappears fast.
