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Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese

This Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate easy comfort food. With tender pasta, rich cheese sauce, and minimal prep, it’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or whenever you need cozy, cheesy goodness.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Calories: 460
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups pasta about 8 oz
  • 1 cup milk or condensed milk or half & half
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 ½ cups shredded cheese your choice—cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, etc.
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 10 ¾ oz cheddar cheese soup canned
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat

Method
 

  1. Cook Pasta Slightly: Boil the pasta in salted water for about 4–5 minutes, just until slightly softened but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Crock Pot Base: In your slow cooker, combine the milk, sour cream, shredded cheese, butter, cheddar cheese soup, salt, pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne (if using). Stir until mixed.
  3. Add Pasta: Fold the partially cooked pasta into the cheese mixture, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours, stirring halfway through. The pasta should be tender and the cheese sauce creamy.
  5. Serve: Stir well before serving. Garnish with extra cheese, parsley, or even a sprinkle of paprika if desired.

Notes

  • Undercooking the pasta before adding it to the Crock Pot prevents it from becoming mushy.
  • For a creamier sauce, add an extra splash of milk or half & half before serving.
  • If the sauce thickens too much, stir in additional warm milk until desired consistency is reached.