Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Crockpot Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food that’s way better than store-bought, combining creamy Velveeta and sharp cheddar cheese with tender macaroni for an irresistibly cheesy side dish. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, making it a keeper in your meal rotation!

Crockpot mac and cheese is a total game-changer for busy weekdays or laid-back weekend get-togethers. It’s super easy to throw together, and the result? A creamy, cheesy dish everyone will be drooling over.

The best part? You can make it your own by mixing up the cheese. Whether you’re into sharp cheddar, smooth American, or a combo of both, it’s all up to you!

Using the crockpot means no need for constant stirring or stressing about it burning—just set it and forget it.

Ready to take your mac and cheese to the next level? This recipe will have your taste buds singing and save you tons of time. Trust me, everyone will be back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

• Super Easy: Crockpot mac and cheese is a breeze to make. Just toss all the ingredients in, and let the slow cooker handle the rest. That means less time in the kitchen and more time to do other things.
• No Boiling Needed: Unlike the classic method, there’s no need to pre-cook the pasta. You add it uncooked along with everything else, saving you an extra step and making cleanup easier.
• Creamy Goodness: Thanks to evaporated milk, cheddar, and American cheese, you get a rich, creamy texture every time. It’s smooth, cheesy perfection in every bite.
• Totally Customizable: Whether you’re using gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cheese or want to sneak in some extra veggies, this recipe is flexible enough to suit your needs.
• Always Comes Out Great: The slow cooker cooks the noodles evenly and melts the cheese perfectly. No more worrying about undercooked or mushy pasta – it’s just right every time.
• Perfect for Parties: Hosting a potluck or family dinner? Crockpot mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that stays warm and creamy, making it perfect for serving straight from the pot.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Once everything’s in the crockpot, you can set it and forget it. That leaves you free to handle other tasks or just sit back and relax.

Ingredients

• Whole milk: This makes your mac and cheese super creamy.
• Evaporated milk: Adds richness without being too heavy.
• Dijon mustard: A little tang that boosts the cheesy flavor.
• Salt: Brings out all the tasty flavors.
• Cayenne pepper: For a mild kick of spice, but totally optional if you want it milder.
• Shredded sharp cheddar: You’ll mix some into the sauce and save some for extra cheesy goodness at the end.
• Velveeta: Melts perfectly for that smooth, velvety texture.
• Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta that cooks up just right in the crockpot.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory punch to the dish.
• Fresh chives or Italian parsley: Toss these in at the end for a fresh, green touch if you like.

How to Make

• Step One: Grease the slow cooker with cooking spray. Set aside ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese for later.
• Step Two: Pour the whole milk and evaporated milk into the slow cooker. Add the Dijon mustard, salt, and cayenne pepper and stir in the milk.
• Step Three: Add the remaining cheddar cheese, Velveeta cheese, and macaroni to the slow cooker. Stir together.

• Step Four: Cook on LOW for 2 hours.
• Step Five: Remove the lid, and stir together well. Add the ½ cup of cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese and stir. It may seem runny, but it will thicken when removed from the heat.
• Step Six: Top with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and serve immediately.

Equipment Needed

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• Crockpot
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Cheese Grater
• Scraper Spatula

Recommended Crockpots for Mac and Cheese

When picking a crockpot for mac and cheese, size and brand matter. Here’s what to look for to get the best results.

Size and Capacity The size of your crockpot can make a big difference. A 6 to 8-quart slow cooker makes enough mac and cheese to feed a family or a crowd.

If you’re cooking for just a few people, a 4-quart crockpot should work fine. But a larger one gives you more space to stir and mix without making a mess.

Bigger crockpots also often come with handy features like timers and temperature controls, which help your mac and cheese cook evenly and prevent burning.

Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid overfilling. A too-full crockpot can lead to uneven cooking or spills.

Brand Recommendations Here are some trusted brands that are great for mac and cheese:

• Crock-Pot: This classic brand offers many models with features like programmable settings and easy-to-clean removable stoneware.
• Hamilton Beach: Affordable and reliable, their slow cookers have excellent temperature control, and many models have a keep-warm setting to maintain that creamy texture.
• Instant Pot: Known for pressure cooking, the Instant Pot’s slow cooker function is also excellent for making creamy mac and cheese.
• KitchenAid: Their premium models provide even heat distribution, helping you achieve that perfect, velvety texture.

Each brand has its perks, so think about what’s most important to you—ease of cleaning or extra cooking features.

What to Serve with Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Vegetables

• Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed, they add a nice fresh crunch.
• Broccoli: Steamed broccoli pairs great and brings a pop of color.
• Caesar Salad: A light, tangy Caesar salad cuts through the richness of the cheese.

Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken is an easy way to add some protein.
• Ham: A slice of ham goes perfectly with cheesy noodles.
• Meatloaf: A classic combo that always pairs well with mac and cheese.

Breads

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a no-brainer.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread gives the meal a comforting Southern vibe.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are great for soaking up any extra cheese sauce.

Other Sides

• Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy, it’s a refreshing contrast to the creamy mac.
• Baked Beans: Sweet and savory, baked beans add even more flavor.
• Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic side that goes hand in hand with mac and cheese.

Customizing Your Mac and Cheese

Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Want to jazz up your mac and cheese? Try adding some tasty extras like bacon, garlic, or veggies.

Crispy bacon bits bring a smoky kick, while sautéed garlic adds a burst of flavor. Steamed veggies like broccoli or peas add texture and a healthy boost.

If you’re into spice, toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. For something a bit fancier, try sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, or even a drizzle of truffle oil.

Switching up your cheeses is also a fun way to mix things up. Gouda, parmesan, or mozzarella can take your mac and cheese to the next level with a rich, cheesy blend.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Options

Going vegan? No problem! Swap out dairy with plant-based alternatives like almond or soy milk. For the cheese sauce, use nutritional yeast and cashews, or grab some store-bought vegan cheese that melts well.

Need gluten-free? Just use gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or corn—it works great in the crockpot. Make sure to check that your spices and sauces are gluten-free too, so everyone can dig in without any worries.

Adjusting for Creaminess

Want your mac and cheese to be creamier? Go for cream or half-and-half instead of regular milk. Cream cheese also adds a rich, smooth texture.

If you prefer a lighter option, you can use low-fat milk for that creamy consistency without the extra fat. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary depending on the liquids you use.

Stirring it every so often will help keep everything evenly creamy.

Variations and Substitutions

Feeling adventurous? You can try different variations to make your mac and cheese unique. Smoked cheeses or fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary can give it a sophisticated twist.

Looking for a healthier option? Swap out regular pasta for whole grain or chickpea pasta. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes—shells, penne, or rotini will each bring a new texture.

And if you want to turn your mac and cheese into a hearty main dish, consider adding pulled pork, barbecue sauce, or even lobster for some wow-factor flavor.

Storing and Reheating

Got leftover mac and cheese? Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Don’t forget to label it with the date.

Reheating

Crockpot Method:

• Grease the crockpot with cooking spray or butter.
• Line the bottom with crumpled foil for even heating.
• Heat on low for 1-2 hours or high for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Oven Method:

• Preheat to 350°F.
• Add 1 tablespoon of milk per cup of mac and cheese.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes.

Microwave Method:

• Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl.
• Add a splash of milk or water.
• Cover and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Pasta: Stick to uncooked elbow macaroni for the best texture. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can get mushy in the slow cooker, so avoiding those is better.
• Cheese: Mix it up! Use cheddar, mozzarella, and American for a rich, creamy blend. Sharp cheddar gives a tangy flavor, and mozzarella melts perfectly.
• Flavor Boosters: Add a little extra flavor with garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and a pinch of cayenne. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also add some depth.
• Stirring: Make sure to stir everything well after adding the ingredients to spread the flavors evenly.
• Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the clock. Overcooking can turn your pasta too soft.
• Non-Stick Spray: A quick spray of non-stick spray in the crockpot makes cleanup a breeze and helps prevent sticking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Avoiding Overcooking If your mac and cheese ends up dry or overcooked, the heat might be too high. Set your crockpot to low. Adding a little extra milk, cream, or evaporated milk can help keep it creamy and prevent drying out.

Fixing a Grainy Texture Grainy cheese sauce happens when the cheese doesn’t melt smoothly. Use cheeses that melt well, like cheddar, American, or cream cheese, and melt them slowly over low heat. Adding cream or evaporated milk can also help. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as the anti-caking agents can make your sauce grainy.

Solving Undercooked Pasta If the pasta is undercooked, it may not be fully submerged in the liquid. Add more milk to cover it, and cook for at least 2 hours, checking for tenderness. If it’s still firm, cook in 30-minute intervals, stirring occasionally for even cooking. Using good-quality pasta and making sure it’s well-coated with liquid before starting the crockpot helps, too.

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• Chicken and Spinach Pasta
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