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Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese

This Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese is the easiest way to make rich, velvety macaroni without boiling pasta or babysitting the stove. Made with uncooked elbow macaroni, two types of milk, and a blend of melting cheeses, this slow cooker recipe delivers perfect texture and flavor every time. It’s ideal for busy families, potlucks, parties, or lazy weeknight dinners—simple, comforting, and always crowd-pleasing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 can 12 oz evaporated milk
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: cooked bacon diced jalapeños, taco seasoning, chorizo, green chilies, or smoked paprika

Method
 

  1. Crockpot Method
  2. Grease the inside of your crock pot with butter or nonstick spray.
  3. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the slow cooker.
  4. Pour in the whole milk and evaporated milk.
  5. Stir in the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  6. Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
  7. Mix gently until everything is combined.
  8. Cover and cook on LOW for 1 hour.
  9. Open the lid, stir well, and check progress.
  10. Continue cooking on LOW for another 30–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and creamy.
  11. Add extra milk if needed to adjust thickness.
  12. Serve warm and enjoy!
  13. Optional Add-In Step
  14. Stir in cooked bacon, jalapeños, chorizo, taco seasoning, or extra cheese during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a flavor boost.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest results; pre-shredded cheese does not melt as smoothly.
Avoid cooking on HIGH — it can overcook the pasta quickly.
If the mac and cheese thickens while sitting, stir in a splash of milk to loosen it.
You can add vegetables like cooked broccoli or peas at the end for added texture.
To keep it creamy for parties, leave the crock pot on WARM and stir occasionally.
This recipe pairs beautifully with BBQ, chicken dinners, or Mexican-inspired dishes.