Discover the easiest way to make rich, creamy mac & cheese in your crockpot. Perfect for busy days or a cozy dinner favorite.

Introduction

Mac & Cheese Crockpot is the ultimate comfort food for those who crave cheesy, creamy goodness with minimal effort. Using a slow cooker, you can achieve velvety mac & cheese that’s bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. Whether you’re preparing a dish for a family dinner, a potluck, or just treating yourself, this recipe is a game-changer. The best part? Everything comes together effortlessly in your crockpot, leaving you free to focus on other tasks. Let the slow cooker work its magic, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s cheesy, hearty, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

• 16 oz elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2½ cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Spray your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the crockpot.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

3. Pour the milk, heavy cream, and evaporated milk over the macaroni.
4. Add the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

5. Mix in 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese. Reserve the remaining cheese for topping.

Step 4: Cook

6. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Step 5: Finish with More Cheese

7. Once the macaroni is tender and the sauce is thickened, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top. Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2-3 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes

Servings

Serves 6-8 as a main dish or 10-12 as a side dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi work well.

2. Can I add mix-ins?

Absolutely! Consider adding cooked bacon, diced ham, or steamed broccoli for extra flavor.

3. How do I prevent the mac & cheese from drying out?

Stir occasionally and ensure you use the specified amounts of liquid for a creamy consistency.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can reheat leftovers in the crockpot with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

5. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Pre-shredded cheese works, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and enhances flavor.

Conclusion

Mac & Cheese Crockpot is a must-try recipe for anyone seeking a hassle-free way to enjoy the creamy, cheesy classic we all love. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you need a crowd-pleasing side. The crockpot does all the work, creating a rich and indulgent meal with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a mac & cheese purist or enjoy adding creative toppings and mix-ins, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your home. Treat yourself to this easy, comforting delight today!