This creamy mac and cheese is made easy in a crockpot! Just mix pasta, cheese, and a few other ingredients for a warm and cheesy dish that everyone will love.
Honestly, who doesn’t adore a big bowl of gooey mac and cheese? I love how it cooks while I do other things—perfect for busy days. Just be ready for the compliments!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the traditional choice for macaroni and cheese, but feel free to use other pasta shapes like shells or penne. They will hold the cheese sauce beautifully too!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick of flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try medium cheddar or a mix of cheese like Monterey Jack or Colby. For a sharper taste, consider aged cheddar.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you want a lighter version, you could use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead, but be mindful that it will affect the taste slightly.
Milk and Heavy Cream: These create the base of the cheese sauce. If you’re short on heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, try almond milk or oat milk, but the texture will change a bit.
Spices: Black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder add flavor. Adjust these according to your taste! If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika.
How Can I Make Sure My Mac and Cheese Stays Creamy?
To keep your mac and cheese creamy, follow these key steps when preparing the cheese sauce. Start by combining melted butter and cream cheese until smooth. This creates a great base. Mixing in the milk and heavy cream afterward also helps maintain that rich texture.
- Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly to avoid lumps.
- Don’t skip stirring the pasta mixture well so every piece gets coated in cheese sauce.
- When it’s time to serve, give everything a gentle stir to reincorporate any sauce that may have settled.
And remember, don’t overcook the mac and cheese in the crockpot! You want it to be heated through but not dry.
Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crockpot mac and cheese takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 2 to 3 hours of cooking in the crockpot on low. So gather your ingredients and enjoy your time while it cooks up into a creamy, cheesy delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a bit of bite. Once done, drain the macaroni and set it aside.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, softened cream cheese, milk, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and optional garlic and onion powders. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the heart of your cheesy goodness!
3. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Mixture:
Add the cooked macaroni to your cheese mixture. Gently stir it all together so that every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious cheese blend.
4. Prepare the Crockpot:
Take your crockpot and grease the inside with some cooking spray or a bit of butter. This helps to prevent sticking, making cleanup easier for you later!
5. Layer the Ingredients:
Start by adding half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the bottom of the greased crockpot. Next, spoon the macaroni and cheese mixture over this layer. Finally, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top.
6. Cook It Up:
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Set it to cook on low for about 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese has melted beautifully and the macaroni is heated through. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once it’s done, give the mac and cheese a gentle stir to mix everything together for a creamy consistency. Scoop it into bowls and enjoy your homemade slow-cooked mac and cheese. It’s the perfect cozy dish for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a Mexican blend can add a unique flavor. Just be sure to stick to about 4 cups total for the best creamy texture!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with additional milk or sour cream for a lighter version. For a richer texture, try using half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese. Adjust based on your preference for creaminess!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture in advance, keeping it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to add a little extra cooking time if starting from cold in the crockpot!
