Okay, let’s get cooking! Here’s a comforting Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe designed with busy moms like you in mind. It’s the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside out, perfect for those chaotic weeknights when everyone needs a little extra love.

I remember the first time I tried making Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe. I was so tired of juggling work, school pickups, and the endless dinner demands. I needed a win, a comfort food miracle that wouldn’t require constant hovering over the stove. I stumbled upon a basic recipe, tweaked it to fit my family’s preferences, and crossed my fingers. The result? Pure cheesy bliss! My kids devoured it, my husband raved, and I actually got to sit down and relax for a few minutes. It was a dinnertime victory!

This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a sanity-saver. It’s about creating a warm, comforting moment amidst the everyday craziness. It’s about feeding your family well without losing your mind in the process. If you’re looking for a simple, satisfying dish that will bring smiles to your table, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get started, fellow comfort seekers! This creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is a surefire win for the whole family.

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need

Ingredients for Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

1 pound elbow macaroni: This is the classic choice for that perfect Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe, but feel free to experiment!
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: I usually go for sharp cheddar for that extra flavor kick in my Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe.
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a lovely creamy texture that blends beautifully.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This gives the Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe a savory depth that’s irresistible.
1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk: This is the secret to that super creamy consistency.
1 cup milk: Any kind will do, but I often use whole milk for added richness.
1/4 cup butter, melted: Adds a touch of indulgence and helps prevent sticking.
2 teaspoons salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the cheesiness in the Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just a touch for a little warmth.
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: My family gets extra comfort when I add this!

Trust me, this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe ingredient list is simple because busy moms need comfort without complexity! You can find these simple ingredients at your regular grocery store. If you’re missing Monterey Jack, don’t stress! You can substitute with mozzarella or even more cheddar. This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe proves delicious doesn’t mean expensive or complicated. For an extra layer of flavor, sometimes I throw in a dash of smoked paprika – adds a lovely depth to this simple Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe.

Here’s a Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe comfort hack that changed our family’s dinnertime: I prep the cheese the night before! Shredding it and storing it in an airtight container saves so much time the next day. This recipe is so similar to The Best Crock Pot Mac and Cheese – Southern Bite, yet stands on its own!

Let’s Make it Happen!

First, cook the macaroni according to package directions, but slightly undercook it – about 2 minutes less than the recommended time. It will continue to cook in the slow cooker, so you want it to be a little firm. This is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Drain the macaroni well and add it to your slow cooker. Make sure it’s a 6-quart or larger slow cooker to prevent overflow. This step is so important for a delicious creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe.
In a large bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Reserve about 1 cup of the cheese mixture to sprinkle on top later. Mix well to distribute the cheeses evenly. This ensures every bite of your Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is cheesy perfection!
Add the cheese mixture to the slow cooker with the macaroni. Then, pour in the evaporated milk, milk, and melted butter. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
Stir everything together until well combined. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the macaroni. This step is key to a creamy, cheesy Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or on high for 1-1.5 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The cooking time can vary depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it. In my busy kitchen, this comforting Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe usually takes about 2.5 hours on low.
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top of the Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe. Cover and let it melt. Your Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe should smell amazing by now!
Once the cheese is melted and the Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is hot and bubbly, it’s ready to serve! Let it cool slightly before serving, as it will be very hot. While your Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is cooking, take a moment to appreciate creating comfort for your family!

Here’s where I used to struggle with my Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe – I would overcook the macaroni in the first step. Learn from my experience! And don’t worry if your Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe looks a little soupy at first. It will thicken as it cools. I love that this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is largely hands off! Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch! Or do some laundry, whatever brings you comfort! If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for Mac and Cheese Soup!

How We Love to Eat This!

The kids devour this comforting Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe when I serve it with steamed broccoli or a simple side salad. The bright green adds a pop of color and some extra nutrients. This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is also fantastic with grilled chicken or sliced ham for a heartier meal.

This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need comfort food fast! It’s also a great option for potlucks or family gatherings. Everyone always raves about how creamy and cheesy it is! I love serving this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe with a sprinkle of paprika and some chopped fresh parsley for a pretty presentation.

Leftovers (if there are any!) are delicious reheated. I add a splash of milk to keep them creamy. Sometimes, I even use the leftover Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe to make mac and cheese bites – just mix with breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown!

We also enjoy adding different toppings to our Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe, depending on the season. In the fall, we love adding roasted butternut squash. In the winter, crumbled bacon is a must! No matter how you serve it, this creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is sure to be a hit with your family. My friends always ask for this Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese recipe after trying it at my home!

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Is this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe really filling enough for growing kids? Absolutely! The combination of pasta and cheese is a great source of carbohydrates and protein, which will keep them full and satisfied. Pair it with a side of veggies or a protein for a complete meal.
What if my picky eater won’t try this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe? I totally get it! Picky eaters can be a challenge. Try starting with a small portion and focus on the creamy texture and cheesy flavor. You can also try adding a topping they already enjoy, like crumbled crackers or a sprinkle of bacon. Don’t give up! This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is so delicious; they might surprise you.
Can I meal prep this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe for busy weeks ahead? Yes, you can! You can cook the macaroni ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. You can also shred the cheese and mix it together. Then, when you’re ready to make the Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe, just combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook as directed.
Can I use different types of cheese in this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Gruyere, Havarti, and Colby Jack are all delicious options. Just make sure they melt well.
What if I don’t have evaporated milk? You can substitute with heavy cream or half-and-half. However, the Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe might not be as thick and creamy.
Can I add vegetables to this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe? Yes, you can! Broccoli, peas, and carrots are all great additions. Just add them to the slow cooker in the last hour of cooking so they don’t get too mushy.
Is this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe gluten-free? Not as written, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free macaroni. I’ve tried it, and it works great! Just make sure to check the label on your cheese to ensure it’s gluten-free as well.

I hope these answers help! This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is a truly easy and delicious option for busy families. It has been a game changer for weeknight dinners!

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe supports my family’s comfort food goals because it’s simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect solution for those days when I need a quick and easy meal that everyone will love. If this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe seems easy enough, you should see this Crock Pot Mac and Cheese – Brown Eyed Baker!

My Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe Comfort Hacks:

Shred the cheese ahead of time: This saves so much time during the week.
Use pre-cooked bacon: If you’re adding bacon, using pre-cooked bacon is a huge time-saver.
Don’t overcook the macaroni: Undercooking it slightly ensures it won’t be mushy in the slow cooker.

Here are a few family-tested Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe variations:

Bacon Cheddar: Add crumbled bacon and extra cheddar cheese. My husband’s favorite!
Broccoli Cheddar: Add steamed broccoli florets. The kids love this one!
Spicy Jalapeño: Add diced jalapeños and a pinch of cayenne pepper. For those who like a little kick!

I encourage you to make this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe your own! Experiment with different cheeses, toppings, and spices to create a version that your family will love. I hope this cheesy Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe makes your family’s mealtime successful! Remember my fellow Mommies, if you’re in the mood for some comfort in a bowl, you may also enjoy this Mac and Cheese Soup, or for a cheesier twist, try this Philly Cheesesteak Soup Recipe. For more sanity-saving dinner ideas, check out this Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe!

And if you’re craving a sweet treat after all that deliciousness, why not check out these Loaded Cream Cheese Halloween Brownies for a fun and festive dessert?

Now go ahead and try this satisfying Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe, I know you and your family will love it!

Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

This creamy and comforting Crockpot Mac and Cheese is the perfect hands-off dish for potlucks, holidays, or a cozy weeknight dinner. Simply throw the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic!

Author: Beatriz
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 180 minutes
Total Time: 195 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound elbow macaroni
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
3 cups milk
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 large eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Grease a 6-quart slow cooker.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, milk, melted butter, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Pour the milk mixture over the macaroni and cheese mixture and stir to combine.
Pour the mixture into the prepared slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For an extra creamy mac and cheese, add 4 ounces of cream cheese, cut into cubes, to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. You can also top with breadcrumbs during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a crispy topping.