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Paula Deen's Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Ultra-creamy slow cooker macaroni and cheese with sharp and mild cheddar, requiring minimal effort for maximum comfort food satisfaction.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni pasta
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1.5 cups whole milk
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 3 eggs beaten
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder

Equipment

  • 4-6 quart crockpot
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until just barely tender, then drain well and transfer to the prepared crockpot.
  3. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and mild cheddar cheese to the hot pasta, stirring gently to begin melting the cheese.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, whole milk, melted butter, and beaten eggs until well combined and smooth.
  5. Pour the milk mixture over the pasta and cheese in the crockpot, stirring everything together until evenly distributed.
  6. Add the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, stirring again to ensure the seasonings are incorporated throughout.
  7. Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally if desired, until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is hot and bubbly.
  8. Once finished cooking, stir the mac and cheese gently to redistribute the sauce and ensure everything is evenly coated before serving hot.

Notes

For best results, shred cheese from blocks rather than using pre-shredded cheese. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent edges from drying out. Add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers to restore creamy consistency.