Go Back Email Link
–+ servings

Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

This slow cooker mac and cheese combines tender pasta and melted cheese in a creamy, bubbly dish that requires minimal effort. The slow cooker melds the flavors together beautifully, resulting in a comforting, cheesy final texture with a golden, inviting appearance. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends, it’s a no-stir, no-fuss recipe that delivers rich, gooey goodness every time.
Hit the Rating button
Print Pin
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes
Calories: 520kcal
Author: James Taylor
Servings: 6

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1.5 cups milk whole or skim
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon mustard powder optional
  • a few dashes hot sauce or cayenne pepper optional, for heat

Instructions

  • Gather all your ingredients, measuring out the pasta, cheese, milk, butter, and seasonings, and have your slow cooker ready.
  • Layer the uncooked pasta in the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta.
  • Pour the milk over the mixture, making sure it’s distributed evenly.
  • Add small dollops of butter on top, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and mustard powder.
  • Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low. Let it cook for about 2 to 3 hours, checking at the 2-hour mark to see if the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Once bubbling and the pasta is tender, stir everything together gently with a silicone spatula, mixing the melted cheese into the pasta evenly.
  • Let the dish rest for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and develop a creamy consistency.
  • Give the mac and cheese a final stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. If you want extra kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper now.
  • Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired, and enjoy your creamy, cheesy comfort food!

Notes

For an extra crispy topping, transfer to a baking dish and broil for a few minutes until golden brown. You can also customize with cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or other add-ins for variety.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcal | Carbohydrates: 62g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 720mg | Potassium: 410mg | Sugar: 7g | Calcium: 300mg | Iron: 2mg