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Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese

4.8/5
20 reviews
Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese
Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese
195min Total Time
8 people Servings
Easy Difficulty
Budget Cost
580 kcal Calories

Video

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Ingredients

8
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 12 oz evaporated milk
  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1

Spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray

2

Add uncooked macaroni to the crockpot

3

Pour in whole milk and evaporated milk

4

Add melted butter and cream cheese cubes

5

Add all seasonings and stir to combine

6

Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours or HIGH for 1.5 hours

7

After first hour, stir mixture to prevent pasta from sticking

8

In the last 30 minutes, add both grated cheeses and stir well

9

Let stand for 10-15 minutes before serving to thicken

Troubleshooting

If sauce is too thick, add warm milk gradually while stirring
If sauce is too thin, cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes to reduce
If pasta is too firm, add more cooking time in 15-minute increments
If cheese is grainy, reduce heat and add a splash of warm milk
If mixture is sticking, stir more frequently and check temperature setting

Recipe Variations

Mexican: Add diced green chiles, taco seasoning, and pepper jack cheese Buffalo: Include buffalo sauce and shredded chicken Lobster: Add cooked lobster meat and Old Bay seasoning Truffle: Mix in truffle oil and mushrooms Green Chile: Include roasted green chiles and queso fresco

Serving Suggestions

Top with crispy breadcrumbs for added texture Serve with steamed broccoli or peas Pair with a crisp green salad Add crumbled bacon or diced ham for meat lovers Garnish with fresh parsley or chives

Nutrition Facts

580
Calories
28g
Protein
45g
Carbs
32g
Fat

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using pre-shredded cheese (contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting) Opening crockpot too frequently which releases necessary heat Not stirring occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking Using wrong pasta shape that doesn't hold sauce well Adding all cheese at beginning of cooking time

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Fresh grated cheese is recommended as it melts better and creates a smoother sauce

Why is my sauce grainy?

This usually happens when cheese is added too quickly or at too high temperature. Add cheese gradually and maintain low heat

Can I cook this on high the entire time?

Not recommended as it may cause the milk to scorch and pasta to become mushy

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Don't overcook and check pasta consistency during last hour of cooking

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, if your crockpot is large enough. Cooking time may need to be increased slightly

What's the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but any good melting cheese works well

Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, but it may require additional liquid and cooking time

Why did my sauce separate?

This can happen if heat is too high or cooking time is too long. Maintain recommended temperature

Can I make this ahead of time?

Best served fresh, but can be reheated with additional milk to restore creaminess

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in airtight container in refrigerator up to 4 days

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, add cooked vegetables in last 30 minutes of cooking

What if I don't have evaporated milk?

Regular milk can be used but sauce won't be as creamy

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, but texture and taste will vary. Use unsweetened varieties

Why isn't my cheese melting properly?

Make sure cheese is room temperature and finely grated for best melting

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, but check pasta frequently as cooking time may vary

Reviews

Anastasia K.
Mar 13, 2026
The creamiest mac and cheese I've ever made! The crockpot method is genius.
Brandon C.
Feb 24, 2026
Great recipe, though I needed to add a bit more salt for my taste.
Catalina R.
Feb 26, 2026
Perfect comfort food! My kids request this weekly now.
Dmitri L.
Feb 23, 2026
Love how hands-off this recipe is. Great results with minimal effort.
Esperanza M.
Mar 12, 2026
The combination of cheeses makes this absolutely delicious!
Francesco G.
Mar 20, 2026
Very good recipe, though watch the cooking time carefully.
Gabriella S.
Mar 19, 2026
Restaurant quality mac and cheese right at home!
Hassan T.
Mar 11, 2026
Added some spices to kick it up a notch. Great base recipe.
Isabella F.
Mar 8, 2026
The easiest and tastiest mac and cheese I've made.
Javier P.
Mar 1, 2026
Perfect for potlucks, always gets compliments.
Kaitlyn W.
Mar 17, 2026
So creamy and delicious, will definitely make again!
Lorenzo D.
Mar 10, 2026
Good recipe, though I prefer a bit more cheese.
Meredith B.
Mar 5, 2026
The ultimate comfort food made super easy!
Nikolai V.
Mar 18, 2026
Great texture and flavor, family approved.
Octavia H.
Mar 9, 2026
Finally found my go-to mac and cheese recipe!
Priscilla J.
Mar 20, 2026
Love how easy this is in the crockpot.
Quinlan A.
Mar 19, 2026
The best mac and cheese recipe I've tried!
Rodrigo E.
Mar 24, 2026
Simple but delicious, great for feeding a crowd.
Seraphina N.
Mar 13, 2026
Perfectly creamy every time!
Thaddeus M.
Mar 20, 2026
Solid recipe with consistent results.
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