This fuss-free mac & cheese comes together with just five simple ingredients, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Creamy and comforting, it’s perfect for the whole family—even the picky eaters. Let the slow cooker do all the heavy lifting while you focus on more important things—like choosing the perfect movie to watch while you dig into this cheesy goodness!
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 4 cups milk (use your favorite: whole, 2%, or even lactose-free)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on preference)
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
Instructions
Begin by greasing the slow cooker insert generously with butter or cooking spray to prevent any sticking. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, then pour in the milk. Scatter the butter pieces on top of the macaroni, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving about a cup to sprinkle on top later.
Stir everything gently to combine, then cover the slow cooker. Cook on low for about two to three hours, giving the mixture a quick stir halfway through to help the cheese melt evenly and to check if you need to add a splash more milk. In the final 30 minutes, lift the lid, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, and let it melt into a golden blanket of cheese.
When the noodles are perfectly tender and the cheese sauce is thick and creamy, it’s ready. Taste for seasoning, adding a bit more salt if needed. Serve your mac & cheese hot—ideally with a sprinkle of pepper or fresh herbs, if you like.
This recipe offers the dreamy indulgence of classic mac & cheese with minimal effort or fuss. It’s ideal for anyone seeking a cozy-minded meal that still feels special, whether you’re making lunch for the kids or pulling together a weekend treat.
Try swapping in different cheeses or adding in a dash of garlic powder, paprika, or ground mustard for a simple upgrade. With its quick prep, customizable flavors, and creamy texture, this Velvety 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Mac & Cheese brings comfort to the table every time.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
