If you have ever dreamed of the ultimate comfort food that melts in your mouth and delivers pure happiness in every bite, then this Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This dish takes the classic macaroni and cheese we all adore, and effortlessly transforms it into a hands-off, slow cooker masterpiece that’s creamy, cheesy, and absolutely soul-satisfying. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing side for your next gathering, this recipe combines simplicity and rich flavor in the best way possible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven white bowls and glass cups arranged on a white marbled surface in a neat oval shape. At the bottom right is a large white bowl filled with uncooked elbow macaroni pasta, golden-yellow in color. To the left is a slightly smaller white bowl filled with a fine pile of shredded cheddar cheese, bright orange and fluffy in texture. Above, a medium white bowl contains shredded white cheese, soft and stringy. Above and to the left is an open can of evaporated milk with a silver lid resting beside it, creamy and light beige in color. Next to the macaroni and cheese bowls, a clear glass cup filled with melted butter, a smooth yellow liquid. Above is a small round white bowl with a few scoops of light brown mustard powder. Adjacent to it is a transparent measuring cup containing fresh milk, white and smooth. The setup of ingredients is well spaced and clearly visible in bright light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the table. The balance of cheeses, milk, and spices creates the luscious taste and velvety texture that make this dish irresistible.

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked): The perfect pasta shape for capturing all that creamy cheese sauce.
2 cups milk: Adds creaminess and keeps the macaroni tender as it cooks.
1 cup evaporated milk: Gives a richer, silkier texture than regular milk alone.
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the dish, providing sharp, flavorful cheese goodness.
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a gooey, stretchy element that melts beautifully.
2 tablespoons butter: Enhances richness and adds a smooth, buttery flavor.
½ teaspoon paprika: Offers a subtle warmth and a hint of color to brighten the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

Start by adding the uncooked elbow macaroni, milk, evaporated milk, butter, salt, pepper, and paprika right into your slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to blend the ingredients well. This simple mix sets the foundation for the creamy sauce and tender pasta you’re about to create.

Step 2: Slow Cook on Low for 1 ½ Hours

Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for about 90 minutes. Be sure to give the mixture a gentle stir every now and then to prevent the macaroni from clumping or sticking to the sides. This slow cooking ensures the pasta cooks evenly and soaks up all the creamy flavors.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses

Once the macaroni is tender and the base mixture is fragrant and bubbling, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir them in to allow the cheese to melt into the creamy sauce, creating the lush texture this Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe is beloved for.

Step 4: Cook for an Additional 30 Minutes

After adding the cheeses, let the mac and cheese continue to cook on low for another half hour. This step ensures the cheese fully melts and the sauce thickens to that perfect, dreamy consistency that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Once everything is perfectly melted and creamy, give your mac and cheese a final stir and serve it warm. The inviting aroma and velvety texture make it a standout dish that comforts and delights with every bite.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

A white bowl filled with macaroni pasta covered in a creamy yellow cheese sauce, with small black pepper specks sprinkled on top. The pasta is tightly packed in the bowl, showing soft curves of the elbow macaroni with a smooth, shiny texture of the cheese coating. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a blurred blue and green textile in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of green and a fresh contrast to the richness. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a handful of crispy breadcrumbs toasted with butter can add exciting texture and color that elevate this creamy classic even further.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or tangy coleslaw to cut through the cheese’s richness. It also shines alongside barbecued meats like ribs or grilled chicken, making your meal balanced and gratifying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon the mac and cheese into individual ramekins and sprinkle with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, then broil briefly for a golden crust. You can also stuff it inside a warm pita or use it as a creamy filling for stuffed peppers to impress your friends with a playful presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe, transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy creamy comfort food even after the first serving.

Freezing

This macaroni and cheese also freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-friendly containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

When reheating, use a gentle touch by warming the mac and cheese over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency and savor those comforting flavors all over again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a bit of Parmesan for a sharper flavor. Just keep in mind that the cheddar and mozzarella combo offers the perfect balance of sharpness and meltability in this recipe.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked macaroni?

This recipe is designed for uncooked elbow macaroni to absorb the sauce as it cooks in the slow cooker. Using pre-cooked pasta might result in mushy texture, so it’s best to follow the recipe with uncooked pasta.

How do I prevent the mac and cheese from drying out?

Make sure not to overcook the mac and cheese. Stirring occasionally during cooking helps, as well as keeping your slow cooker on the low setting. If it seems too thick when done, adding a splash of milk and stirring will improve the texture.

Can I add other ingredients like bacon or vegetables?

Definitely! Cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli make wonderful additions, adding flavor and texture that complement the creamy cheesiness perfectly.

What type of slow cooker is best for this recipe?

Any standard slow cooker with a low setting works great. If you have a programmable model, it can help maintain consistent temperature, but it’s not essential. The key is to monitor and stir occasionally for the best results.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe is truly a game-changer for anyone who loves rich, comforting food without the fuss. The ease of tossing everything into the slow cooker and coming back to a perfectly creamy, cheesy meal is pure magic. I encourage you to try it, share it, and make it your go-to comfort dish that brings smiles at every meal.

Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 39 reviews

Author: Jane
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese made easily in the slow cooker — perfect as a comforting side dish or a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Pasta and Dairy

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
2 cups milk
1 cup evaporated milk
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Others

2 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Combine Ingredients: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, milk, evaporated milk, butter, salt, pepper, and paprika into the slow cooker. Stir everything together until well combined.
Cook Initial Phase: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 1 ½ hours, stirring occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking and to ensure even cooking.
Add Cheeses: After the initial cooking time, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the slow cooker. Stir thoroughly to combine the cheeses with the macaroni mixture.
Finish Cooking: Cook the mixture for an additional 30 minutes on low, stirring occasionally, until the cheese has fully melted and the dish is creamy and smooth.
Serve: Once cooked, serve the mac and cheese warm as a comforting side dish or main dish.

Notes

Avoid overcooking to prevent the macaroni from becoming dry or mushy.
For extra richness, consider adding cream cheese during the cheese addition step.
Stirring occasionally during cooking helps keep the texture smooth and prevents sticking or burning.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Category: Side Dish
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American