Slow Cooker White Cheddar Mac & Cheese
Description
Slow Cooker White Cheddar Mac & Cheese is a rich, creamy, and comforting pasta dish made with tender macaroni and smooth white cheddar cheese. This easy slow cooker recipe delivers a velvety cheese sauce without standing over the stove, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, holidays, or cozy weeknight meals. Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavor.
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil macaroni in salted water for 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain well.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the slow cooker with butter or cooking spray.
Step 3: Add Ingredients
Place cooked macaroni into the slow cooker. Add white cheddar cheese, milk, heavy cream, butter, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 4: Stir
Mix everything gently until combined.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
- On LOW for 2–3 hours
Stir once or twice during cooking to keep the sauce smooth.
Step 6: Serve
Once creamy and fully melted, garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Recipe Notes
- Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese.
- Do not overcook or the sauce may become thick.
- Sharp white cheddar gives the best flavor.
- Add extra milk if the sauce thickens too much.
Tips for Best Results
- Slightly undercook the pasta before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Stir gently to prevent pasta from breaking.
- Mix in cooked bacon, broccoli, or chicken for added flavor.
- Keep warm setting on low if serving at parties.
Servings
Serves: 6–8
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
(Nutrition varies depending on ingredients used.)
Health Benefits
- Provides calcium for healthy bones and teeth.
- Contains protein from cheese and milk.
- Comfort food that is filling and satisfying.
- Homemade version avoids many preservatives found in boxed mixes.
- Can be customized with vegetables for added nutrients.
Q&A About Slow Cooker White Cheddar Mac & Cheese
Q: Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes! Shells, cavatappi, or rotini work well.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it ahead and reheat gently with a splash of milk.
Q: Why is my mac and cheese dry?
Overcooking or insufficient liquid can dry it out. Add extra milk if needed.
Q: Can I freeze mac and cheese?
Yes, but the texture may slightly change after thawing.
Q: What cheese works best besides white cheddar?
Gruyère, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Parmesan are great additions.
Q: Can I make this spicy?
Yes! Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.
Q: How long can leftovers stay in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.