Crockpot Mac & Cheese
Creamy, cheesy comfort food with rich flavors of cheddar, perfect for a hearty family meal or casual gathering, cooked effortlessly in a crockpot.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray the crock pot with cooking spray.
- Add cooked and drained elbow macaroni to the crock pot.
- Mix in all ingredients except 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stir well to combine.
- Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the dish is firm and golden brown.
- Do not uncover or stir until finished.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier mac and cheese, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to enhance the richness. You can substitute the cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor. If you prefer a bit of a kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. Cooking the macaroni slightly less than al dente helps it absorb the sauce better during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this mac and cheese as a main dish or as a hearty side alongside grilled chicken or barbecue ribs. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, like a simple green salad or a more elaborate Marvelous Macaroni Salad for a potluck. For a fun twist, consider topping with crispy bacon or breadcrumbs for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crockpot Mac & Cheese contains roughly 1569 calories, with 23g protein, 218g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (71% of the Daily Value), iron (60% of the Daily Value), and protein (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 976mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese a day in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients and store them in the crock pot insert in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, place it in the crock pot and set it to cook on low for the recommended time. This makes it perfect for gatherings or busy weeknights.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Crockpot Mac & Cheese is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. Just ensure that the cheese used is not processed with animal rennet, which some vegetarians avoid. This makes it a great option for vegetarian recipes that everyone can enjoy!
What can I do if my mac and cheese is too dry?
If your mac and cheese turns out too dry, you can stir in a splash of milk or cream to add moisture. Alternatively, add a bit of butter or cheese to enhance creaminess. If you have leftovers, use the reheating method mentioned to help restore some of the original creaminess.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).