Mac & Cheese Crockpot Magic

Mac & Cheese Crockpot Magic is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly satisfying, this slow-cooked dish is a family favorite that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, combining all the ingredients to create a rich, velvety sauce that coats every bite of macaroni. This recipe is perfect for busy nights, parties, or any time you’re craving a bowl of cheesy goodness.

With a combination of American cheese, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan, this Mac & Cheese is an irresistible, gooey delight. Plus, with the added creaminess from the mayonnaise and milk, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this Crockpot Mac & Cheese is a crowd-pleaser you’ll make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hands-Off Cooking

This recipe is made in the slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it while the flavors meld together for a perfect result every time.

Creamy and Cheesy

With three types of cheese and a creamy sauce made from cream, mayonnaise, and milk, this Mac & Cheese is the epitome of comfort food.

Easy to Make

Simply throw all your ingredients into the Crockpot and let it do the work for you! It’s as easy as it gets.

Customizable

You can add extra toppings like bacon bits, breadcrumbs, or even a bit of extra spice to make it your own.

Great for Groups

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just a family dinner, this Mac & Cheese makes plenty and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni (9 ounces)
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for flavor, not heat)
• 8 ounces yellow American cheese, chopped into chunks
• 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (1 and 1/2 cups packed)
• 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, freshly shredded (1/2 cup packed)
• Extra sliced cheese, optional

Variations

• Add Protein: For a heartier dish, stir in cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage.
• Vegetarian: Keep it vegetarian by adding a handful of sautéed vegetables, like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Different Cheeses: Swap out the cheeses for your favorites. Mozzarella, gouda, or even a bit of goat cheese could make this dish unique.
• Extra Crunch: Top with crispy breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for an added crunchy texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Start by cooking your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a Crockpot, combine melted butter, evaporated milk, whole milk, cream, mayonnaise, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Step 3

Add the cooked macaroni to the Crockpot and mix it all together so that the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 4

Add the chunks of American cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheese to the mix. Stir to combine until the cheese is evenly distributed.

Step 5

Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring halfway through. If you prefer a more creamy consistency, stir every hour.

Step 6

Once the mac and cheese is creamy and the cheese is fully melted, serve hot with optional extra sliced cheese on top.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook: Avoid cooking the macaroni too long before adding it to the slow cooker. Overcooked pasta will become mushy when slow-cooked.
• Mixing Cheese: Grate your own cheese for the best meltability and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more milk or cream and stir until you reach your desired consistency.
• Slow Cooker Size: Make sure you’re using the correct size slow cooker. If you’re doubling the recipe, use a larger Crockpot.

How to Serve

Serve this Mac & Cheese as a main dish or as a side to accompany grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, or a fresh salad. It pairs wonderfully with just about anything and can also be served with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce to add a little kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Mac & Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze Mac & Cheese for up to 3 months. Just place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and reheat when needed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the Mac & Cheese in a pot over low heat and add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creaminess. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free elbow macaroni in this recipe.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, such as mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack.

3. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients. If doubling, be sure to use a larger Crockpot and adjust the cooking time if necessary.

4. Can I make this without evaporated milk?

Evaporated milk gives this dish a rich, creamy texture. You can use whole milk as a substitute, but it may affect the creaminess.

5. How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

6. Can I add more spice to this recipe?

Yes, if you like a bit more heat, you can add extra cayenne pepper or even some hot sauce.

7. Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them in the Crockpot insert in the fridge overnight. Just cook it the next day.

8. How do I make this Mac & Cheese more cheesy?

Add an extra 1/2 cup of your favorite cheese, or mix in a bit of cream cheese for an extra creamy texture.

9. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta shape in place of elbow macaroni, such as penne or rotini.

10. Can I bake this Mac & Cheese instead of using the Crockpot?

Yes, you can bake this in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Conclusion

Mac & Cheese Crockpot Magic is the perfect dish for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or a comforting meal on a cozy evening. With the rich, creamy sauce and gooey cheese, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. This easy-to-make Crockpot version simplifies the process while still delivering that indulgent Mac & Cheese flavor everyone loves.

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