Go Back Email Link
+ servings

Baked Mac and Cheese in Crock Pot for Your Dinner

5 from 1 vote
This creamy slow cooker mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Easy, cheesy, and perfect for weeknights or gatherings!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Elbow macaroni Can substitute with shells or cavatappi.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Substitute with mild cheddar for lighter taste.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded Enhances creaminess.
  • 12 oz Evaporated milk Can use regular milk as an alternative.
  • 2 cups Milk Choose any milk variety based on preference.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, melted Consider oils for a lighter version.
  • 1 cup Sour cream Greek yogurt works well as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Pecorino can be a delightful swap.
For Seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper Can reduce if preferred.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dry mustard Yellow mustard can work in a pinch.
  • 1/8 teaspoon Cayenne pepper Optional for a slight kick.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the elbow macaroni, and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Combine the shredded sharp cheddar, milk, evaporated milk, melted butter, salt, black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne in a large mixing bowl and stir until creamy.
  3. Grease the interior of the crock pot generously with butter or cooking spray.
  4. Place the cooked macaroni in the crock pot, pour the cheese sauce over the pasta, and stir gently to coat the noodles.
  5. Fold in the sour cream and half of the grated Parmesan and mozzarella, mixing lightly.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring every 30 to 45 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top during the final 10 minutes of cooking, then cover and let the cheese melt.
  8. Serve the macaroni and cheese warm directly from the crock pot.

Nutrition

Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 19gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 58mgSodium: 605mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4g

Notes

Optional: Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.