Creamy and Easy Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this effortless Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese recipe.

Let your trusty crockpot do the work as creamy, cheesy goodness melds with perfectly cooked pasta, resulting in a dish that’s not only irresistibly delicious but also incredibly convenient for your busy schedule. We love easy Slow Cooker Recipes!

Set it and forget it, and return to a warm, satisfying meal that will please both kids and adults alike.

For years my boys refused to eat macaroni and cheese! I mean, what kid doesn’t love the staple that comes from a box? Not mine! Only the real stuff will do.

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How Mac and Cheese Was Invented

Macaroni and cheese, a beloved comfort dish, has a rich history that spans centuries.

It originated in Italy, where pasta and Parmesan-like cheese concoctions were prevalent in the 14th-century cookbook “Liber de Coquina.”

The version we enjoy today has roots in 18th-century England, where macaroni, considered a novelty, was paired with a creamy cheese sauce.

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Thomas Jefferson, often credited for introducing macaroni to the United States during his European travels, is said to have served “macaroni pie” at a state dinner in 1802.

Over the years, the dish evolved, becoming a staple in American homes and gaining widespread popularity as a classic comfort food.

Why Mac and Cheese for Thanksgiving

Macaroni and cheese has become a popular dish for Thanksgiving for several reasons.

Firstly, it’s a comfort food that appeals to people of all ages, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Additionally, its creamy texture and cheesy goodness complement the traditional Thanksgiving fare, offering a unique and indulgent side dish.

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Many families appreciate the versatility of macaroni and cheese, as it can be customized with various cheeses, seasonings, or even added ingredients like bacon or breadcrumbs.

While it might not be a traditional Thanksgiving dish, its popularity and deliciousness have led to its inclusion on many holiday tables.

Can Macaroni and Cheese Be Frozen

Yes, macaroni and cheese can be frozen. To freeze macaroni and cheese, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.

Ensure that you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why you’ll love the Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese recipe:

• Effortless Preparation: Simply combine uncooked pasta with cheeses, milk, and seasonings in the slow cooker. No need to boil the pasta separately, saving you time and cleanup.
• Ultra-Creamy Texture: The slow cooking process melds the ingredients together, resulting in a rich, velvety mac and cheese that’s both comforting and indulgent.
• Minimal Stirring Required: Unlike stovetop methods that require constant attention, this slow cooker recipe allows you to set it and let it cook, freeing you up for other tasks.
• Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: Easily scalable, this recipe can be doubled or tripled to serve a larger group, making it ideal for gatherings, potlucks or family dinners.
• Versatile Flavor Base: Customize your mac and cheese by adding ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed onions or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs to enhance the flavor profile.

This recipe will become your new go-to comfort food option!

Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese Ingredients

For the full ingredients, see the recipe card at the end of this post.

• cooked macaroni noodles
• shredded Mexican style cheese combo
• evaporated milk
• butter
• salt and pepper to taste

If you feel like switching things up, you can add a little extra oomph to your slow cooker macaroni and cheese.

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For example, add in diced cooked veggies (like carrots) or make this comfort food fancy with some lobster.

My husband is a hot sauce nut — his favorite thing to add would be diced up jalapeños!

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese

To prepare the Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:​

1. Slow Cooker (Crockpot): Essential for cooking the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over several hours.​
2. Large Mixing Bowl: Used to combine all ingredients before transferring them to the slow cooker.​
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients like macaroni noodles, shredded cheese, evaporated milk, and butter.​mommyevolution.com
4. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir and mix the ingredients thoroughly in the mixing bowl and later in the slow cooker.​
5. Cooking Spray or Brush: To lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker, preventing the macaroni and cheese from sticking.​
6. Colander: To drain the cooked macaroni noodles before mixing them with other ingredients.​

These tools will assist you in efficiently preparing and cooking the Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese.

Directions for Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese

Combine all of the ingredients in a mixing bowl.

Lightly spray your slow cooker with oil — you’re really going to want to considering all of the cheese!

Pour the mixture into your slow cooker and set on low.

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Cook for 4 to 5 hours covered, stirring several times during cooking.

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Creative Macaroni and Cheese Recipes

Push the boundaries of flavor and texture with exciting combinations of cheeses, unexpected ingredients, and innovative twists that will elevate your mac and cheese game to a whole new level!

• Macaroni Tex Mex Casserole
• Baked Macaroni and Cheese (Using Velveeta)
• Pecan Mac and Cheese Bake
• Crock Pot Beefy Macaroni and Cheese
• Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
• Weight Watchers Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese
• Yummy Gooey Homemade Mac and Cheese
• Spicy Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Casserole

Find even more fun Creative Mac and Cheese Recipes!

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