This 5 ingredient slow cooker mac and cheese is one of those recipes I come back to because it is almost ridiculously easy for how creamy it turns out. With cream cheese, cheddar, milk, evaporated milk and elbow macaroni, you get a rich, cheesy Crock Pot mac and cheese without making a separate cheese sauce.
I especially love this one for holidays and family gatherings because the slow cooker keeps the oven free — and both kids and adults will actually eat it.
Why You’ll Love This 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese
- Only five ingredients
- Rich and incredibly creamy
- No roux or homemade cheese sauce
- Perfect for Thanksgiving and holidays
- Frees up valuable oven space
- Easy to transport for potlucks
- Kid-friendly and crowd-friendly
Do You Cook the Macaroni Before Putting It in the Slow Cooker?
For this recipe, yes — I recommend cooking the macaroni separately before adding it to the slow cooker. I have tested adding the pasta raw, and while it can work if you serve it at exactly the right time, the margin for error is small. Mine became too soft when dinner was delayed.
Cooking the pasta separately gives me much more consistent results, especially when I’m making this for a holiday or gathering where the timing isn’t always predictable.
The Five Ingredients
One 8 oz package of cream cheese, 2 1/2 cups of milk, 4 cups of your favorite shredded cheese, a can of evaporated milk, and elbow macaroni. That’s all you need for this crockpot wonder.
How Easy is it?
Toss cream cheese, milk, shredded cheese, and evaporated milk into the crockpot. Set it on high for an hour, allowing the magic to happen as your kitchen fills with the aroma of cheesy goodness.
Cook elbow macaroni separately. Introduce it to the crockpot mix, and witness the seemingly watery concoction become a velvety elixir as the macaroni soaks up the liquid, creating a smooth, luxurious texture.
The Convenience of the Slow Cooker
In a world where time is precious, the slow cooker comes to the rescue. This recipe lets you set the stage and forget about it until the aroma of melting cheeses and savory goodness fills your kitchen.
If you’re new to the slow cooker, or looking for a new one, this is the one that I know, love, and recommend. It’s treated me well through the years, travels well, and has automatic shut off/timer.
Perfect for All Occasions
Imagine a creamy side dish that steals the spotlight at gatherings with minimal effort. Whether you’re visiting friends or hosting Thanksgiving, this 5 ingredient slow cooker mac and cheese is a versatile hero, freeing up your oven and ensuring a dish that’s devoured with delight.
In a realm where cooking joy meets simplicity demands, this 5-Ingredient Crockpot Mac and Cheese stands tall. It’s proof that a handful of ingredients and minimal kitchen time can redefine mac and cheese expectations. Embrace the ease, revel in the creaminess, and let this recipe be your tastebud’s easy-to-love companion in your busy schedule.
FOR MORE EASY HOLIDAY RECIPES CHECK OUT THESE VIDEOS:
MORE HOLIDAY RECIPES TO TRY:
- Turkey Tenderloin in the Crockpot
- Air Fryer Butternut Squash With Candied Pecans
- Pumpkin Crunch cake
- Apple Baked Brie Bites
5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 1x
Description
Unlock the secret to a luscious mac and cheese with just five ingredients! This recipe features the creaminess of cream cheese, the richness of cheddar, and the convenience of a crockpot, making it a stress-free yet indulgent addition to your table. Cooked separately, the elbow macaroni adds the perfect texture to this velvety delight, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese for mac and cheese)
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 1 16oz package Elbow macaroni (cooked separately)
Get Recipe Ingredients
Instructions
- In a crockpot, combine cream cheese, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and evaporated milk.
- Cook on high for 1 hour, allowing the ingredients to meld together.
- Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni separately according to package instructions.
- After the initial hour, add the cooked macaroni to the crockpot and continue cooking for an additional 45 minutes.
- Stir well to achieve a velvety, smooth consistency.
- Serve and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Notes
I have seen this cooked with the raw macaroni for 2.5 hours total. I tried this and then I had to go somewhere so the macaroni got quite mushy. I think this process is possible if you plan to eat right at 2.5 hours but it leaves such a high margin for error, it’s not my recommendation.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
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How much macaroni?
1 16oz package! Sorry I will fix that!
This was my first time making anything in a crock pot and it was so easy and delicious!
I’m so glad you loved it!