The Best Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy & Easy
If you’re looking for the ultimate crockpot mac and cheese recipe, you’ve landed in the right place! This comfort food classic is creamy, cheesy, and absolutely effortless to prepare. Unlike stovetop versions that require constant stirring, the slow cooker does all the work while you sit back and relax.
Whether you’re making this for a holiday dinner, game night, or a quick family meal, crockpot mac and cheese guarantees smiles at the table. With perfectly tender pasta coated in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, this dish is loved by both kids and adults.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 1 lb (16 oz) elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color & flavor)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Prepare crockpot – Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray.
- Cook pasta slightly – Boil macaroni for about 5 minutes (just under al dente). Drain well.
- Mix wet ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, melted butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Layer pasta & cheese – Add half of the pasta to the crockpot, then layer with half the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat with remaining pasta and cheese.
- Pour mixture – Slowly pour the milk mixture over the pasta and cheese layers.
- Cook – Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours, stirring once halfway through.
- Final touch – Sprinkle extra cheddar on top, cover, and cook for 10–15 more minutes until melted and gooey.
- Serve & enjoy – Scoop warm, creamy mac and cheese straight from the crockpot.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Serving Size: 6–8 servings
Tips & Variations
- Extra creamy: Stir in 4 oz of cream cheese before cooking.
- Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.
- Meat lovers: Mix in crispy bacon, ham cubes, or shredded chicken.
- Topping option: For a crunchy finish, sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or panko crumbs on top just before serving.
- Cheese mix-up: Swap cheddar with gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 540 kcal |
| Protein | 21 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Lower-Fat: Swap heavy cream with evaporated milk and use reduced-fat cheese.
- Keto-Friendly: Use cauliflower florets instead of pasta.
- Dairy-Free: Replace milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives like cashew cheese or almond milk.
Serving Suggestions
This crockpot mac and cheese recipe is perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or potlucks. Serve it alongside fried chicken, BBQ ribs, or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
Once you try this slow-cooked version, you’ll never go back to boxed mac and cheese again. It’s creamy, indulgent, and practically cooks itself!
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I use uncooked pasta directly in the crockpot?
Yes, but pre-cooking for 4–5 minutes prevents mushy noodles and ensures even cooking.
Q2: Can I cook this on HIGH instead of LOW?
Yes, but reduce cook time to about 1–1.5 hours and stir more often to prevent burning.
Q3: Can I make crockpot mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare ingredients and refrigerate. Add to the crockpot when ready to cook.
Q4: How do I keep it from drying out?
Add a splash of milk before serving if it thickens too much.
Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat with a little extra milk for creaminess.
