Looking for a comforting, cheesy delight without the fuss? This Crockpot Mac and Cheese is your go-to recipe. It's creamy, rich, and perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together.
Elbow macaroni is the base that absorbs all the cheesy goodness. The sharp cheddar cheese provides that classic tangy flavor, while Monterey Jack cheese adds a creamy texture. Whole milk and evaporated milk bring richness and help create a smooth sauce. Unsalted butter adds depth and silkiness. For a subtle boost, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika offer just the right hint of flavor, with salt and pepper rounding it all out.
This mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside some grilled chicken or a juicy steak. For a fun twist, top with crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of fresh chives.
First things first, coat the inside of your slow cooker with some non-stick spray. This simple step ensures that the cheesy mix won't stick and makes for easy cleanup later. Next, pour the uncooked elbow macaroni straight into the slow cooker — no need to pre-cook it. Trust me, it will cook perfectly with the cheese and milk mixture.
Now, sprinkle in the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. These are what make the dish irresistibly creamy and cheesy. Follow up by adding the whole milk and evaporated milk. You might be wondering why two types of milk — the evaporated milk gives a richer taste without watering down the flavor.
Next, pour in the melted unsalted butter — it’s going to help everything meld together beautifully. Now, season it up! Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, then give it a good sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything until it’s well mixed. You want to make sure all the macaroni is submerged in that cheesy, buttery goodness.
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low. The cooking time is about 2-3 hours, but I recommend giving it a stir every now and then. This helps ensure the pasta cooks evenly and the cheese melts smoothly. Once the pasta is tender and the cheese is fully melted, it’s ready to serve. Give it a final stir to mix everything well, then dish it out immediately for the best texture and flavor.
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