Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy crockpot macaroni and cheese. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce makes for a delightful meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or craving a hearty lunch, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pound uncooked elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt, divided
• Cooking spray
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• ½ cup butter, cut into pieces
• 3 ounces cream cheese, cut into pieces
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 16 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded, divided

Directions

1. Cook the Macaroni:
   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat; add macaroni and 4½ teaspoons salt. Cook pasta until just barely tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
   • Spray the inside of a slow cooker with cooking spray. Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • Stir in whole milk, evaporated milk, butter, cream cheese, and black pepper into the pasta.
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and egg yolk until well combined; stir into the pasta mixture.
   • Set aside ¾ cup of shredded Cheddar cheese. Stir the remaining cheese into the pasta mixture.
4. Cook:
   • Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low until bubbly and lightly browned around the edges, about 1½ hours.
5. Add Topping:
   • Sprinkle with the reserved ¾ cup of shredded Cheddar cheese. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted, about 15 minutes more.
6. Serve:
   • Serve immediately. Alternatively, turn the slow cooker to Warm or Off until ready to serve.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Makes 12 Servings)

• Calories: 385
• Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
• Cholesterol: 123mg
• Sodium: 1015mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 16g
• Vitamin C: 1mg
• Calcium: 404mg
• Iron: 1mg
• Potassium: 206mg

Why Make Macaroni and Cheese in a Crockpot?

Using a crockpot to make macaroni and cheese comes with several benefits:

• Effortless Cooking – Unlike the stovetop method, which requires constant stirring and monitoring, the slow cooker does all the work for you. Just add the ingredients, set the temperature, and let it cook to perfection.
• Unmatched Creaminess – Cooking mac and cheese slowly allows the cheese and dairy ingredients to meld together beautifully, resulting in a smooth, velvety sauce.
• Hands-Free Meal Prep – This method is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, and holiday meals. Since it doesn’t require supervision, you can focus on preparing other dishes or spending time with family.
• Consistent Results – Unlike baked mac and cheese, which can sometimes turn out dry, the crockpot version remains consistently creamy and moist.

A Brief History of Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese has a fascinating history that dates back centuries. While it is widely associated with American cuisine, its origins trace back to Europe.

• Early Origins – The earliest recorded version of mac and cheese appeared in a 14th-century Italian cookbook, which described a dish made with pasta and grated cheese.
• Thomas Jefferson’s Influence – In the late 1700s, Thomas Jefferson encountered macaroni dishes in Europe and later helped popularize it in the United States. He even had a macaroni machine imported from Italy to make the dish at home.
• Rise in Popularity – The introduction of boxed macaroni and cheese during the Great Depression made the dish more accessible to families, cementing its place as a beloved American classic.
• Modern-Day Variations – Today, mac and cheese is enjoyed in countless variations, from gourmet versions with truffle oil and lobster to simple, homestyle crockpot recipes that prioritize comfort and ease.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Creamy Texture

One of the biggest challenges with macaroni and cheese is achieving the right consistency—creamy, smooth, and rich, without being overly thick or dry. Here are some key tips for ensuring your crockpot mac and cheese turns out perfect every time:

• Use a Blend of Cheeses – Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but adding other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack can enhance the flavor and meltability. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cooking the pasta too long before adding it to the slow cooker can lead to mushy mac and cheese. It’s best to cook it just until al dente so it maintains its texture during the slow-cooking process.
• Incorporate a Thickening Agent – Ingredients like cream cheese, evaporated milk, or a beaten egg can help create a richer, thicker sauce. These additions also prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.
• Keep Stirring to a Minimum – Unlike stovetop mac and cheese, crockpot mac and cheese benefits from minimal stirring. Stirring too frequently can break down the pasta and cause the sauce to become too thick.
• Use Full-Fat Dairy – Whole milk, heavy cream, and butter contribute to the rich and creamy consistency of the sauce. Low-fat alternatives may result in a less smooth texture.

Customization Ideas: Making It Your Own

One of the best things about macaroni and cheese is its versatility. You can customize it to match your taste preferences, dietary needs, or special occasions. Here are some fun variations to try:

Protein-Packed Mac and Cheese

• Add shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked ground beef, or crumbled bacon for a heartier dish.
• Stir in seafood like shrimp or lobster for a gourmet twist.

Spicy Mac and Cheese

• Mix in diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Use pepper jack cheese to add some heat to the dish.

Vegetable-Loaded Mac and Cheese

• Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Broccoli and cauliflower pair especially well with cheese sauces.

Baked Topping for Extra Crunch

• If you enjoy a crispy topping, transfer the cooked mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
• Try adding crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for an extra crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can still be delicious if stored and reheated properly.

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Mac and cheese can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk to help restore the creamy consistency.
• Reheating Methods:
  • Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a little milk as needed.
  • Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent clumping.
  • Oven: Bake at 300°F for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Mac and Cheese

While mac and cheese is often enjoyed on its own, pairing it with complementary dishes can elevate the meal. Here are some delicious options:

• Protein Pairings: Serve alongside grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, or a juicy steak for a satisfying meal.
• Vegetables: Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or steamed broccoli to balance out the richness.
• Bread: A side of garlic bread or cornbread is perfect for soaking up the cheesy goodness.
• Soup: Enjoy with a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting and classic combination.

Conclusion

Creamy crockpot macaroni and cheese is a dish that embodies comfort, ease, and indulgence. By using a slow cooker, you can achieve a rich and creamy texture without the hassle of constant stirring or complicated techniques. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a holiday feast, or a casual gathering with friends, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.