Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply combine the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work.​
• Creamy and Cheesy: A blend of cheeses creates a luscious, velvety sauce.​Reddit+6Damn Delicious+6The Pioneer Woman+6
• No Pre-Boiling Required: The pasta cooks directly in the slow cooker, saving time and dishes.​therecipecritic+2Show Me the Yummy+2Allrecipes+2
• Perfect for Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to transport and keep warm.​
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite cheeses or add-ins.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 16 oz elbow macaroni (uncooked)​Lady and the Blog
• 2 ½ cups whole milk​The Pioneer Woman
• 12 oz can evaporated milk​The Pioneer Woman+1The Girl on Bloor+1
• ½ cup heavy cream​Lady and the Blog+4The Pioneer Woman+4Mr. B Cooks+4
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter​
• 1 tsp kosher salt​The Pioneer Woman+1Mr. B Cooks+1
• ½ tsp ground black pepper​The Pioneer Woman
• ¼ tsp paprika​The Pioneer Woman
• ¼ lb American cheese, cubed​The Pioneer Woman
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded​
• 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded​

Directions

1. In a 6 to 8-quart slow cooker, combine the uncooked macaroni, whole milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, butter, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne.​The Pioneer Woman
2. Cover and cook on high for 30 minutes.​The Pioneer Woman
3. Stir the mixture, cover, and cook until the noodles are almost tender, about 25 minutes more. Check the noodles—if they are still too firm, continue to cook in 10-minute increments until they are tender with a slight bite.​The Pioneer Woman
4. With the slow cooker still on high heat, add the American cheese, gently folding it into the macaroni until almost melted.​The Pioneer Woman
5. Working in three batches, gently fold in the cheddar and gouda, making sure the cheese is fully melted before adding the next batch.​The Pioneer Woman
6. Serve immediately, or set the slow cooker to warm for up to 2 hours. When holding the mac and cheese on warm for serving, gently stir occasionally and fold in 2 tablespoons of warm milk, as needed, to loosen the sauce.​The Pioneer Woman

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8–10​
• Prep Time: 5 minutes​
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes​Southern Living+2The Pioneer Woman+2Allrecipes+2
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes​

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.​
• Meaty Addition: Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken.​
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach.​
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or pepper jack.​
• Breadcrumb Topping: Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for a crispy top.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.​
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.​
• Freezing: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.​

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but other short pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi can also be used.​

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Pre-shredded cheese can be used for convenience, though freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.​

How can I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Monitor the cooking time closely and avoid overcooking. Stirring occasionally can also help ensure even cooking.​

Is it necessary to cook the pasta before adding it to the slow cooker?

No, the pasta cooks directly in the slow cooker, absorbing the flavors of the sauce.​Southern Living+3The Pioneer Woman+3Epicurious+3

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.​

What can I use instead of evaporated milk?

A mixture of half-and-half or whole milk can substitute, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.​

How do I keep the cheese sauce from separating?

Using a combination of cheeses and stirring gently helps maintain a smooth sauce. Avoid overheating.​

Can I add vegetables to this mac and cheese?

Yes, adding steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or peas can enhance the dish.​

Is it possible to double the recipe?

Yes, as long as your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.​

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and store them separately. Combine and cook when ready to serve.

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