With only 4 ingredients, you can whip up a delicious, cheesy, and easy Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese using only macaroni, evaporated milk, whole milk, and cheese.

To make Mac and Cheese in your slow cooker or crockpot, just combine all ingredients except for a bit of the cheese. Cook on low for about 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally, and sprinkle the reserved cheese on top at the end for that perfect cheesy crust.

Try it out and Don’t forget to let me know in the comments how you loved it!

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Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely not! Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Always shred your cheese from a block for the creamiest results.

4 Ingredient Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese Ingredients

• 1 lb (454 g) uncooked elbow macaroni
• 24 oz (680 g) evaporated milk (about two 12 oz cans)
• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
• 3 1/2 cups (392 g) shredded cheese (blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack)

Optional:

• 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) paprika
• 1 tsp (5 ml) mustard

How To Make 4 Ingredient Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

1. Reserve Half the Cheese: Set aside 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese for later use.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the macaroni, evaporated milk, whole milk, remaining cheese, paprika, and mustard into the slow cooker. Add salt to your taste and stir everything together well.
3. Cook on Low: Set your slow cooker to LOW and cook for 2 hours. Keep it covered and resist the temptation to peek too often, as this can affect the cooking process.
4. Check the Pasta: After 2 hours, begin checking the pasta every 20 minutes. This helps prevent overcooking, as the absorption rate can vary based on your slow cooker model.
5. Final Touch: Once you notice that almost all the liquid has been absorbed and the pasta is tender, sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of cheese over the top.
6. Finish Cooking: Continue cooking just until the cheese melts and the macaroni and cheese mixture is creamy and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting richness.

Recipe Tips

• Cheese Choices Matter: Opt for a combination of cheeses like Gouda for creaminess and Parmesan for a salty kick, which can dramatically enhance the flavor and texture of your mac and cheese.
• Avoid Overcooking: Set a timer to check your pasta periodically. Overcooked macaroni turns mushy, so catching it just right preserves that perfect bite.
• Stir Sparingly: While it might be tempting to stir often, limit yourself to just a few stirs during cooking to prevent the pasta from breaking down.
• Low and Slow Wins the Race: Cooking on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so resist any urge to crank up the heat and rush the process.

Recipe Variations

• Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mix before cooking to introduce a delightful kick that cuts through the richness.
• Make It a Meal: Throw in some precooked bacon bits or diced ham before cooking for a heartier dish that stands alone as a fulfilling meal.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free too. This small change can make the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Veggie Delight: Mix in steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to incorporate some greens and add a fresh element to the creamy dish.

What To Serve With Mac and Cheese

Serve your 4 Ingredient Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese with crispy parmesan asparagus, Orange Glazed Carrots, balsamic roasted mushrooms, smoky paprika corn on the cob, and pear and gorgonzola salad.

You can also pair it with zesty lime coleslaw and pickled red onions or Pork Chops and Apple Slices.

How To Store Leftover Mac and Cheese

In The Fridge:

Place the cooled mac and cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Ensure the container is sealed well to maintain freshness and prevent any odors from affecting the flavor of your mac and cheese.

In The Freezer:

Mac and cheese can be frozen, but it may alter the texture of the pasta and sauce. Freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Mac and Cheese

Reheat your leftover mac and cheese by placing it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it lightly, and microwaving on medium power for about 5 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating; or gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Beef Enchilada Casserole
• Bored of Lunch Slow Cooker Chicken Pesto Pasta
• Slow Cooker Pasta Primavera