Introduction
Is there anything more comforting than a bowl of warm, creamy mac and cheese? This dish is a favorite for kids and adults alike. It’s cheesy, soft, and full of flavor. And guess what? You don’t need to stand over a hot stove to make it!
This Ultimate Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe is super simple. You just mix the ingredients, throw them into your slow cooker, and let it do all the work. It’s perfect for busy days, family dinners, or even potlucks. Plus, it tastes like something straight out of a restaurant—rich, cheesy, and totally delicious. Let’s dive in and see how to make this cozy dish in the easiest way possible.
Ingredients – Ultimate Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Here’s a list of everything you need to make creamy mac and cheese in your crock pot:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups milk (whole milk works best)
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon dry mustard (optional but adds flavor)
Step by Step Process – Ultimate Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Making this recipe is as easy as 1-2-3. Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Spray the Crock Pot
First, spray your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray. This helps keep the cheese from sticking to the sides and makes cleaning up way easier.
Step 2: Add the Ingredients
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the crock pot. Then, pour in the milk and evaporated milk. Next, add the cheddar cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and butter. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like garlic powder and dry mustard if using.
Step 3: Stir Everything Together
Use a spoon to mix everything well. Make sure the pasta is mostly covered with liquid and the cheese is spread out evenly.
Step 4: Cook on Low
Set your crock pot to low heat and let it cook for 2 to 2½ hours. Stir every 30-45 minutes if you can. This keeps the pasta from sticking and helps it cook evenly.
Step 5: Check and Serve
After 2 hours, check the pasta. If it’s soft and the cheese is melted into a creamy sauce, it’s ready to serve! If it looks a little dry, you can stir in a splash of milk before serving.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 17g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 26g |
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Cholesterol | 75mg |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Calcium | 350mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
Nope! This recipe is made with uncooked pasta. It cooks right in the crock pot with the cheese and milk, soaking up all the yummy flavors.
Q2: Can I add meat or veggies?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cooked bacon, ham, shredded chicken, or steamed broccoli if you want to make it heartier.
Q3: What kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can mix in other kinds like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but the texture might change a bit. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm it slowly on the stove or microwave.
Q5: How long can I keep leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—the Ultimate Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese that’s easy enough for a beginner and tasty enough for everyone at the table. It’s warm, rich, cheesy, and completely comforting.
Whether you’re cooking for a party, feeding your kids, or just treating yourself, this slow cooker mac and cheese is a winner every time. With just a few simple ingredients and almost no effort, you’ll have a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
So next time you want something delicious but easy, pull out that crock pot and give this recipe a try. Happy cooking—and even happier eating.
