🧀 Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Mac and Cheese
Ultra Creamy • Foolproof • Family Favorite • Set-It-and-Forget-It
If you’re looking for the easiest, creamiest mac and cheese with almost no effort, this Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Mac and Cheese is the answer.
No roux. No stovetop cheese sauce. Just tender pasta coated in rich, velvety melted cheese — all made right in your slow cooker.
It’s the ultimate comfort food side dish (or main dish!) that both kids and adults absolutely love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 4 simple ingredients
- No roux or stovetop sauce required
- Hands-off slow cooker method
- Ultra creamy texture
- Perfect for holidays or busy weeknights
- Easily customizable
⏱️ Recipe Information
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2–3 hours (LOW)
Total Time: About 3 hours
Servings: 6–8
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
📝 Ingredients
- 2 cups (about 16 oz) elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ teaspoon salt (if needed)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter.
2️⃣ Add the Ingredients
Add uncooked macaroni, shredded cheese, whole milk, and evaporated milk directly into the slow cooker. Stir gently until evenly combined. Ensure pasta is fully submerged in liquid.
3️⃣ Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours. Stir once or twice during cooking to prevent sticking. Avoid overcooking.
4️⃣ Check for Doneness
Mac and cheese is ready when pasta is tender and sauce is thick and creamy. If too thick, stir in 2–4 tablespoons warm milk.
5️⃣ Serve
Stir once more before serving. Serve warm and creamy directly from the slow cooker.
Texture & Flavor Profile
- Creamy and smooth
- Rich cheesy flavor
- Soft but not mushy pasta
- Comforting and satisfying
Pro Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt.
- Cook on LOW only.
- Stir occasionally to prevent clumping.
- Add a splash of milk if sauce thickens too much.
- Serve immediately for best texture.
Easy Variations
- Extra Cheesy: Add ½ cup mozzarella or Colby Jack.
- Baked Finish: Transfer to baking dish, add breadcrumbs, broil 2–3 minutes.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne or diced jalapeños.
- Protein Boost: Stir in cooked bacon or shredded chicken.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate up to 4 days in airtight container.
- Reheat with a splash of milk (microwave or stovetop).
- Freezing not recommended.
Nutritional Overview (Approximate)
Calories: ~450
Protein: 18–22g
Carbohydrates: 45–50g
Fat: 22–26g
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Mac and Cheese proves that simple recipes can still be incredibly rich and satisfying. With minimal prep and maximum creaminess, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Once you try this version, it may become your go-to mac and cheese recipe forever.
