Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

This Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese recipe is an epic yet easy family dinner. Since it’s cooked low and slow, every noodle soaks up that rich, cheesy goodness, making each bite incredibly flavorful. If you’re looking for some delicious comfort food that’s also super convenient, give this one a try!

A Cheesy, Creamy Macaroni Dinner

Homemade mac and cheese is always a huge hit with my family. It brings the nostalgia of childhood’s boxed version (which we still enjoy sometimes) but with a more refined taste. I’ve made Baked Mac and Cheese, Instant Pot Mac and Cheese, heck, even Pumpkin Mac and Cheese… so you know my crock pot mac was next!

While this slow cooker mac and cheese is an easy recipe, it’s not a true “set it and forget it” meal. Pasta can be tricky in a slow cooker, as it can go from raw to mushy in just 10-15 minutes. So, remember to stir and check on it frequently during cooking – we want perfectly creamy noodles, not overdone ones!

Ingredients

• Elbow or cavatappi pasta: The classic choice for mac and cheese, these shapes hold the sauce so well.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: For that unmistakable, rich cheddar flavor. You can use pre-shredded cheese or fresh for even more flavor.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a wonderful melt and stretch to your mac.
• Whole milk: The base for our rich, creamy sauce.
• Heavy cream: Gotta have it for that luxurious, creamy texture.
• Unsalted butter: Adds a silky smoothness and richness to the sauce.
• Seasoning blend: A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper provides lots of great flavor.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A sprinkle at the end enhances the whole experience.

Variations & Flavor Upgrades

• Bring the heat: If you like a little kick, add sliced jalapenos, cayenne pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce along with the other seasonings.
• Use different cheeses: Swap some of the sharp cheddar for white cheddar, Gruyere, or even smoked Gouda to add a more complex flavor profile.
• Add protein: Stir in some precooked, shredded chicken or cubed ham for a heartier meal. Or, add crispy bacon bits at the end for a smoky, salty crunch.
• Add veggies: Get some extra nutrients by adding diced bell peppers, broccoli, onions, or chopped spinach. Stir them in while cooking to enhance the flavor.

Preparation

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups milk, heavy cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Next, add the uncooked pasta, cheddar, and mozzarella to the slow cooker. Toss until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Then pour the milk mixture over the top, tossing again to combine.

Cooking

Cover and cook on low for 1 ½ to 2 hours, checking on the pasta and stirring it every 15-20 minutes. When the mac and cheese is done, the pasta should be tender, and the cheese should be fully melted into a creamy sauce.

Serving

Once the cook time is complete, stir the remaining ½ cup of milk into the sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Spoon into bowls and top with parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

Main Dishes to Go with Mac & Cheese

This slow cooker mac and cheese would taste fantastic with pretty much any protein, but my personal favorites are these Best Damn Pan-Seared Pork Chops, Baked Ham with Maple and Brown Sugar Glaze, and Country Fried Steak.

For sides, add something fresh and green like my Oven Roasted Garlic Parmesan Broccoli or Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts. And, of course, some Iron Skillet Cornbread to soak up all the delicious sauce!

Storage & Reheating

Store your slow cooker macaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through. You might need to add a splash of milk or water to keep the cheese sauce from becoming too thick.

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