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Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese the Whole Family Will Love

Writer: Wolf Homestead
Wolf Homestead
Nov 2
2 min read

Mac and cheese is one of those familiar dishes my family is always happy to see. Making it in the crockpot is especially handy when dinner needs to stay warm while everyone gets to the table.


Mac and cheese is basically guaranteed kid currency in our house. I like this version because the crockpot keeps it warm and creamy, which is especially handy on nights when everyone seems to eat at a slightly different time.


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Recipe at a glance


Serves: 6–8. Cook time: 1 1/2–2 hours on LOW


Ingredients


  • 16 ounces elbow macaroni

  • 4 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces

  • 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk

  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed

  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mild cheddar or Colby Jack cheese

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper


Directions


  1. Boil the macaroni for about 2 minutes less than the package directions.

  2. Drain well.

  3. Lightly grease the crockpot and add the warm pasta, butter, evaporated milk, whole milk, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

  4. Stir in 3 cups of the shredded cheese, reserving 1 cup for the top.

  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring once or twice, until the sauce is creamy and the pasta is tender.

  6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, cover, and cook another 15 to 20 minutes until melted.

  7. Do not overcook—the pasta will continue to soften as it sits.


A few helpful tips


Start with pasta cooked just shy of tender. Watch the crockpot closely toward the end so the noodles don't become too soft.


My favorite kitchen finds


Crock-Pot stainless-steel slow cooker — the main cooking appliance.



Slow cooker liners — an optional cleanup shortcut. Follow liner and cooker instructions for safe use.



Glass food storage containers — for storing cooled leftovers.



ChefAide silicone spatulas — for gently stirring the cheese sauce.



Make family meal planning easier


If planning dinner and keeping grocery costs organized feels overwhelming, my printable Family Meal Planner Bundle includes a weekly menu, grocery list, pantry and freezer inventory, monthly calendar, and more. See the Family Meal Planner Bundle




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