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Creamy Slow-Cooker Mac and Cheese

4.8/5
5 reviews
Creamy Slow-Cooker Mac and Cheese
Creamy Slow-Cooker Mac and Cheese
195min Total Time
8 people Servings
Easy Difficulty
Budget Cost
520 kcal Calories

Video

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Ingredients

8
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 12 oz evaporated milk
  • 16 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 8 oz American cheese, cubed
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder
  • 1/4 tsp white pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 4 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions

1

Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray

2

Add uncooked macaroni to the slow cooker

3

Pour in whole milk and evaporated milk

4

Add all three types of cheese to the slow cooker

5

Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, white pepper, and salt

6

Pour melted butter over everything

7

Stir all ingredients until well combined

8

Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours, stirring once halfway through

9

When done, let sit for 10 minutes before serving to thicken

10

Stir well before serving to ensure creamy consistency

Troubleshooting

If sauce is too thick, add warm milk gradually while stirring
If sauce is too thin, cook uncovered on HIGH for 15-30 minutes
If pasta is too firm, continue cooking in 15-minute increments
If cheese appears curdled, add a splash of warm milk and stir vigorously
If mixture is sticking to sides, reduce heat to WARM setting

Recipe Variations

Buffalo style: Add buffalo sauce and blue cheese Tex-Mex: Include diced tomatoes, green chiles, and taco seasoning Truffle: Add truffle oil and mushrooms Greek: Mix in feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes Lobster: Add cooked lobster meat and Old Bay seasoning

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 extra protein Garnish with fresh parsley or chives

Nutrition Facts

520
Calories
24g
Protein
42g
Carbs
28g
Fat

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using pre-shredded cheese (contains anti-caking agents that affect smoothness) Opening the lid too frequently during cooking Not stirring halfway through cooking time Using low-fat milk products (results in less creamy texture) Overcooking the pasta leading to mushiness

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

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

Why did my sauce separate?

This usually happens from overcooking or using pre-shredded cheese. Stick to block cheese and recommended cooking times

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, if your slow cooker is large enough. Cooking time remains the same

Why is my mac and cheese dry?

Make sure to use full-fat dairy products and don't overcook. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking

Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, but it may require additional liquid and cooking time

How do I prevent mushy pasta?

Don't overcook and check pasta consistency during the last hour

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best served fresh. Reheat with additional milk if needed

Why isn't my cheese melting properly?

Use room temperature cheese and avoid pre-shredded varieties for best results

Can I keep it on WARM setting after cooking?

Yes, but no longer than 2 hours to maintain proper texture

What's the best cheese combination to use?

Sharp cheddar provides flavor while American cheese adds creaminess

Reviews

Beatrice L.
Mar 16, 2026
Perfect comfort food! So creamy and delicious.
Xavier M.
Feb 26, 2026
Great recipe but needed a bit more seasoning for my taste.
Yuki T.
Mar 7, 2026
The best mac and cheese I've ever made! So easy too.
Winston P.
Mar 14, 2026
My kids absolutely loved this version.
Zara H.
Mar 15, 2026
Amazing texture and flavor. Will definitely make again!
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