Description
This Mac & Cheese Crockpot Magic is creamy, cheesy, and effortless! Made with real cheddar, a hint of cream cheese, and tender pasta, it’s the ultimate dump-and-go comfort food. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you need something cheesy and soul-satisfying without hovering over the stove.
Ingredients
-
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
-
2 ½ cups whole milk
-
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
-
2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
-
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
4 oz cream cheese, cubed
-
2 tbsp unsalted butter
-
½ tsp garlic powder
-
½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
-
Salt & black pepper, to taste
-
Optional: paprika, hot sauce, or cooked crumbled bacon for topping
Instructions
-
Grease the crockpot:
Lightly spray or butter the inside of your slow cooker to prevent sticking. -
Add everything in:
Add uncooked pasta, milk, evaporated milk, cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese, butter, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir everything together. -
Cook on LOW:
Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring every 30–45 minutes, until the pasta is tender and the cheese sauce is thick and creamy. (Avoid cooking on HIGH—it can overcook the pasta.)
-
Finish & serve:
Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, give everything one last good stir. Serve immediately with extra shredded cheese or crispy bacon on top if desired.
Notes
Stir occasionally while cooking to keep the cheese from clumping or sticking to the sides.
For a flavor boost, add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne.
Great as a side dish or a main—just add broccoli or cooked chicken for a full meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minute
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American