Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe: Effortless Comfort Food

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of rich, creamy mac and cheese—but it gets even better when it’s made with almost no effort. This Crockpot Mac and Cheese recipe delivers everything you love about the classic dish—melty cheese, tender pasta, and indulgent creaminess—without hovering over the stove. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, give it a stir or two, and let the magic happen. It’s a perfect side for gatherings, holidays, or busy weeknights when you need a comforting dish that practically cooks itself. Once you try it, this hands-off version will become your go-to recipe.

Ingredients Of Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

Why You Will Love This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

This Crockpot mac and cheese is a true time-saver, offering creamy, cheesy results with minimal effort. It’s ideal for feeding a crowd, freeing up stove space on busy days or holidays. The slow cooker method ensures even cooking and keeps the pasta tender without overcooking. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable—try different cheeses or mix-ins like bacon or jalapeños for your own spin on this classic comfort dish.

Preparation Process Of Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

This recipe requires no pre-boiling. Simply combine uncooked pasta, cheeses, milk, and seasonings in the slow cooker. Let it cook low and slow until the pasta is tender and the sauce is thick and creamy. Stir halfway through to ensure even melting and coating. It’s hands-off, simple, and nearly foolproof.

Step By Step Instructions

Grease the Crockpot: Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.

Add Ingredients: Combine uncooked elbow macaroni, cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese, evaporated milk, whole milk, butter, garlic powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper.

Stir Well: Mix all the ingredients thoroughly so the cheese and seasonings are evenly distributed.

Cook on Low: Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 2½ hours. Stir once after 1 hour to ensure even cooking.

Check Texture: Around the 2-hour mark, check pasta for doneness. Cook a little longer if needed, but avoid overcooking.

Serve Warm: Once the pasta is tender and sauce is thick, serve immediately. Stir before serving for extra creaminess.

How to Serve?

• Serve hot straight from the slow cooker
• Sprinkle with crispy bacon, fresh parsley, or extra cheese
• Pair with BBQ, fried chicken, or grilled meats
• Great for potlucks, parties, or as a holiday side dish
• Add a side salad or roasted vegetables for a full meal

Tips & Variations

Nutrition

1. Calories: 490
2. Protein: 20g
3. Carbohydrates: 36g
4. Fat: 30g
5. Saturated Fat: 18g
6. Fiber: 1g
7. Sodium: 480mg

Recipe Card

Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe: Effortless Comfort Food

Recipe by Rachael ray

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

2

hours 

Calories

490

kcal

This creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a delicious, no-fuss version of your favorite comfort food. Made with uncooked pasta, real cheeses, and rich dairy ingredients, it cooks slowly in your slow cooker for melt-in-your-mouth perfection. There’s no boiling required—just mix everything and let the crockpot do the work! It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or easy weeknight dinners. Customize it with extra cheeses, protein, or spices to make it your own. Once you try this effortless version, you’ll never go back to stovetop mac and cheese again.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 4 oz cream cheese (cubed)

• 2½ cups whole milk

• 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk

• ¼ cup unsalted butter (cubed)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon dry mustard (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Grease the Crockpot: Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
• Add Ingredients: Combine uncooked elbow macaroni, cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese, evaporated milk, whole milk, butter, garlic powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
• Stir Well: Mix all the ingredients thoroughly so the cheese and seasonings are evenly distributed.
• Cook on Low: Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 2½ hours. Stir once after 1 hour to ensure even cooking.
• Check Texture: Around the 2-hour mark, check pasta for doneness. Cook a little longer if needed, but avoid overcooking.
• Serve Warm: Once the pasta is tender and sauce is thick, serve immediately. Stir before serving for extra creaminess.

Recipe Video

Notes

• Stir once during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even melting
• Use freshly shredded cheese for best texture—pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents
• Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your crockpot model
• Avoid overcooking, or the pasta may become mushy

FAQs

Conclusion