Crockpot Mac & Cheese: Creamy, No-Boil, Holiday-Perfect Comfort Food
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Holiday cooking is stressful, especially if you’re like me and don’t actually enjoy cooking.
Between juggling oven space, timing different dishes, and missing out on catching up with family because you’re in the kitchen trying not to burn the food, it’s a lot.
That’s why I have three crockpots and use them for every holiday. This Crockpot Mac & Cheese is my go-to, crowd-pleasing, holiday favorite, a total lifesaver. It’s rich, creamy, and ridiculously easy to make, and best of all, there’s no boiling required.
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission on purchases at no extra cost to you. A few of the images were created with AI tools — because I’m a real mom on a real budget, doing my best to make it all look pretty.
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Quick Answer:
To make Crockpot Mac & Cheese, combine uncooked elbow noodles, evaporated milk, shredded cheddar, butter, and seasonings directly in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 2 to 2½ hours, stirring once halfway through, until creamy and tender.
Why make mac & cheese in a crockpot instead of the oven?
Because holidays (and weeknights) are hectic enough. The oven’s already full of main dishes, and stovetop mac means babysitting a boiling pot. Crockpot Mac & Cheese lets you dump, stir, and forget—freeing you up to handle everything else.
What You’ll Need to Make It
Ingredients for Creamy Crockpot Mac & Cheese
Add these simple ingredients straight into your crockpot — no boiling required:
16 oz uncooked elbow macaroni
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups milk
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
½ cup butter, melted
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
(Optional: 4 oz cream cheese for an extra creamy version)
(Optional: ½ tsp dry mustard or paprika for flavor depth)
Ingredient Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese if possible—it melts better than pre-shredded.
For the extra creamy version, stir in softened cream cheese before cooking for a richer texture.
Want to make this even easier? I’ve linked my go-to crockpot, utensils, and serving tools on my Holiday Hosting Benable List. Everything I actually use in my own kitchen, reliable, simple, and perfect for stress-free cooking.
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Mac & Cheese
Step 1 — Combine ingredients
Add 16 oz uncooked elbow macaroni, 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 2 cups milk, 1 can evaporated milk, ½ cup butter (melted), ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper directly into your crockpot.
Step 2 — Stir well
Mix everything so the noodles are coated and the cheese and milk blend evenly.
Step 3 — Cook on low
Cover and cook on low for 2 to 2½ hours, stirring halfway through. The noodles will absorb the liquid and become perfectly creamy.
Step 4 — Optional: add toppings
If you want to get fancy, sprinkle extra cheese or buttered breadcrumbs on top right before serving.
Variation: Extra-Creamy Version
If you want your mac & cheese even richer and creamier, add 4 oz (½ block) of cream cheese, cubed, when you mix everything together. It melts right into the sauce as it cooks, giving you that ultra-velvety, Southern-style texture.
Pro tip: Stir it once halfway through cooking to help the cream cheese fully blend into the sauce.
My Real-Mom Experience
I made this last Christmas when every burner in my kitchen was already occupied. I threw everything into the crockpot while chatting with family I hadn’t seen in a while, and by the time dinner rolled around, it
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FAQ: Common Questions About Crockpot Mac & Cheese
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly grated melts smoother without clumping.
Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely, just check it around the 1½-hour mark since gluten-free noodles cook faster.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a 6-quart slow cooker and add an extra 30 minutes of cooking time.
How to Make Crockpot Mac & Cheese:
The simplicity of this recipe, and all crockpot recipes is going to blow your mind.
Add all ingredients to your crockpot.
Stir to combine.
Cook on low for 2–2½ hours, stirring once.
Serve hot and enjoy.
TL;DR:
Skip the stovetop stress and let your crockpot handle dinner. This no-boil mac & cheese is creamy, cheesy, and ready in just a few hours, perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family nights.
Shop my favorites: You can find my go-to crockpot, utensils, and serving tools on my Holiday Hosting Benable List. These are the exact items I use to keep things easy, cozy, and holiday-ready.
Ready to make holiday cooking easier? Pin this recipe to your “Christmas Dinner” board and grab the full Crockpot Recipe Round-Up for even more family favorites!
About Sarah Hanford
Sarah Hanford is a mom of four, content creator, and systems lover who helps families simplify everyday life with realistic tools, recipes, and printable planners. Learn more at SarahHanford.com.
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission on purchases at no extra cost to you. A few of the images were created with AI tools — because I’m a real mom on a real budget, doing my best to make it all look pretty.
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