Crockpot, Side Dishes

Crockpot Mac and Cheese: The Creamiest, Cheesiest Comfort Food You’ll Ever Make

Ain’t nothin’ like a pot of creamy, cheesy mac and cheese slow cookin’ while you handle the rest of your kitchen business. That warm, rich aroma of cheddar and butter-filled goodness hittin’ your nose every time you pass by the kitchen? Man, that’s a whole vibe. We’re talkin’ about Crockpot Mac and Cheese — the ultimate side dish that steals the show, every single time.

This ain’t your boxed mac and cheese. We’re takin’ it low and slow with real-deal cheeses, butter, cream cheese, and a special touch of AB’s A Rub to elevate every single bite. Whether you’re feedin’ the family on a weeknight or showin’ out at the cookout, this is the kind of recipe you lock down in your rotation.

Why You Gotta Make This Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Let’s keep it real. Mac and cheese is already one of the GOAT side dishes — but what makes this version elite is the set-it-and-forget-it method. No need to babysit a stovetop or worry about the oven. Just toss everything in the crockpot, give it a stir every now and then, and boom — creamy, gooey, perfectly seasoned mac that’s gonna have folks askin’ for seconds and thirds.

This recipe brings:

Convenience: Prep in minutes, then let the crockpot do the work.
Creaminess: Thanks to cream cheese, butter, and two kinds of melty cheese.
Flavor: That touch of AB’s A Rub takes this dish to a whole new level.
Crowd-Pleaser Status: Serve it at a family gathering, holiday dinner, or Sunday meal — guaranteed hit.

Ingredients – Keep It Simple, Keep It Flavorful

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this slow-cooked cheesy masterpiece:

16 oz elbow macaroni (cooked and drained)
½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
8 oz cream cheese (cut into cubes)
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups whole milk, evaporated milk, or half and half (your choice)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp AB’s A Rub
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions – The Slow Cookin’ Method That Delivers Every Time

Step 1: Cook That Pasta

Start off by boiling the elbow macaroni until it’s just al dente. You don’t want it mushy — remember, it’s still gonna cook in the crockpot. Drain it, and don’t rinse. Keep that starch.

Step 2: Shred Your Cheese and Cube the Cream Cheese

Don’t go for that pre-shredded stuff. Get you a block of cheddar and mozzarella, and shred it yourself. It melts smoother and gives you that rich, velvety texture. Cube the cream cheese so it melts evenly in the pot.

Step 3: Combine in the Crockpot

Now it’s time to bring everything together. In your crockpot, toss in the:

Cooked macaroni
Melted butter
Cubed cream cheese
Shredded cheddar and mozzarella
Milk or half and half

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, AB’s A Rub, and a little salt and pepper.

Step 4: Stir it Up

Give everything a good stir so the pasta is evenly coated, and the cheeses and seasonings are well distributed. You’re settin’ the stage for that slow-cooked goodness.

Step 5: Let the Crockpot Do Its Thing

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for about 2 hours. Stir it occasionally — maybe every 30 to 45 minutes — to make sure the cheese is meltin’ right and everything stays creamy.

Step 6: Check for Tenderness

After 2 hours, check the pasta. If it’s creamy and the cheese is melted through, you’re golden. If you want it a little more cooked or if it thickened too much, add a splash of milk and give it another 30–60 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Watch It Disappear

Give it one last stir, taste for seasoning, and serve warm. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or the holiday table, this dish delivers.

Expert Tips and Tricks – AB Style

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente is key — it’ll finish cooking in the crockpot and still hold some bite.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: That pre-bagged cheese has anti-caking agents. Go fresh for that smooth melt.
Double Down on Flavor: AB’s A Rub brings a little smokiness and boldness that takes mac and cheese over the top.
Add a Crunch: Right before serving, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top for a little texture.
Thin It Out if Needed: If it thickens too much while sitting, stir in a splash of warm milk.

15 Delicious Variations to Keep It Fresh

Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Smoky BBQ – Stir in pulled pork or chopped smoked brisket.
Bacon Mac – Mix in crispy chopped bacon before serving.
Buffalo Chicken Mac – Add shredded buffalo chicken for heat and flavor.
Seafood Mac – Fold in shrimp or crab for a luxe version.
Veggie Lover’s Mac – Add roasted broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach.
Three-Cheese Blend – Add Gruyère or Fontina for extra richness.
Tex-Mex Style – Add taco seasoning and ground beef or chorizo.
Italian Twist – Stir in marinara sauce and Italian sausage.
Pimento Cheese Mac – Add a spoonful of pimento cheese for Southern flair.
Truffle Mac – Drizzle with truffle oil before serving.
Southwest Mac – Add black beans, corn, and green chilies.
Philly Cheesesteak Mac – Stir in thinly sliced beef and sautéed peppers/onions.
BBQ Chicken Mac – Mix in shredded BBQ chicken and a drizzle of sauce.
Breakfast Mac – Add scrambled eggs and sausage for a brunchy spin.

What to Serve with Crockpot Mac and Cheese – 15 Killer Combos

Fried chicken
Smoked ribs
BBQ pulled pork
Meatloaf
Baked beans
Collard greens
Cornbread
Green beans
Garlic bread
Grilled burgers
Roasted Brussels sprouts
Southern fried catfish
BBQ chicken wings
Potato salad
Sloppy joes

This mac holds its own, but when it’s paired up right, it levels the whole meal up.

Storage Tips – Make It Last (If There’s Any Left)

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keeps for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Reheat with a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture.

Freezer

You can freeze this mac, but keep in mind the texture might change slightly.
Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How Much Should I Make for Family Gatherings?

This recipe makes about 6–8 servings as a side. If you’re feedin’ a crowd or servin’ it up as the main dish, double or even triple the batch. Just make sure your crockpot can handle the load — or use multiple slow cookers.

Here’s a quick guide:

Guests	Multiply Recipe
8–10	1.5x
12–15	2x
20+	3x or more

Keep in mind, this mac disappears fast. Better to have too much than not enough.

How Far in Advance Can I Make Crockpot Mac and Cheese?

You can prep everything the night before. Cook your pasta, shred your cheese, cube your cream cheese, and measure your spices. Keep all ingredients refrigerated in airtight containers.

If you want to fully cook it ahead, it’s best made same day, then kept on warm or low for a short time before serving. For events, I recommend starting it about 3 hours before mealtime, so it’s fresh, hot, and creamy when it hits the table.