The humble macaroni and cheese—a dish that conjures up warm memories of family gatherings and simple, joyful meals. Imagine coming home to the inviting, comforting aroma of cheesy goodness wafting through the air, all thanks to the magic of a slow cooker. This Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese recipe takes all the fuss out of creating this beloved comfort food, allowing it to slowly come together into a creamy, decadent dish that’s ready to enjoy with minimal effort.

One lazy Sunday afternoon, I decided to test this recipe out, aiming to bring a little ease to our family dinner after a bustling weekend. What unfolded was nothing short of culinary bliss, with each spoonful of this macaroni and cheese bringing a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that only a slow cooker can achieve.

Equipment

• Crockpot or slow cooker
• Cheese grater (if grating your own cheese)
• Stirring spoon

Ingredients

• 16 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, cut into cubes for easier melting
• 2 1/2 cups of milk
• 12 ounces evaporated milk

Preparation

1. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Place the uncooked elbow macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, cubed cream cheese, milk, and evaporated milk into the crockpot. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—no pre-cooking required!
2. Cooking Time: Set your crockpot to low and let the mixture cook for about 2 1/2 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the pasta to absorb the milky, cheesy goodness, resulting in a creamy, indulgent texture.
3. Stir and Check for Doneness: After about 2 hours, give the macaroni and cheese a gentle stir to ensure everything is combining nicely and to check the doneness of the pasta. Depending on your crockpot, you may find it’s ready or needs a bit more time.
4. Adjust Consistency: If you find the sauce too thick or cheesy towards the end of cooking, you can adjust the consistency by adding a bit more cooked macaroni and some additional milk. Stir well to combine and allow a few extra minutes for everything to heat through evenly.
5. Keep Warm Until Serving: Once the macaroni and cheese reaches your desired level of creaminess and doneness, switch the crockpot to the “Keep Warm” setting until you’re ready to serve. This is perfect for timing your meal just right, especially during gatherings or when waiting for everyone to come to the table.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy macaroni and cheese straight from the crockpot, perhaps with a sprinkle of paprika or some chopped parsley for a touch of color. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a light seafood dish.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese for convenience. However, shredding your own cheese from a block may result in a smoother melt.

What can I do if my macaroni and cheese is too runny? If it’s too runny, let it cook with the lid off for the last 15-20 minutes. The excess moisture will evaporate, thickening the sauce.

Can I add other ingredients to this recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to stir in cooked bacon, diced ham, sautéed onions, or even some jalapeños for a kick.

Is this dish suitable for freezing? Macaroni and cheese can be frozen, though it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you do freeze it, reheat it slowly in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a little milk to help rehydrate the cheese sauce.

This Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese not only fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma but also fills your evening with ease. It’s a dish that promises relaxation and satisfaction with every cheesy forkful—a true celebration of comfort food at its finest. Enjoy the effortless magic of this beloved classic, perfect for any day of the week.