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Southern-Style Slow Cooker Mac & Cheese

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2-3 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Southern

Description

This Southern-style slow cooker mac & cheese is ultra-creamy, cheesy, and rich—just like grandma used to make! Made with a blend of cheeses, butter, and a hint of evaporated milk, it’s the perfect side dish for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 16 ounces elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

  1. Boil the pasta – Cook elbow macaroni for 4-5 minutes (just until al dente). Drain and set aside.

  2. Grease the slow cooker – Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray.

  3. Mix ingredients – In the slow cooker, whisk together whole milk, evaporated milk, sour cream, melted butter, eggs, salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard.

  4. Add pasta & cheese – Stir in the cooked macaroni and shredded cheeses, mixing until well combined.

  5. Slow cook – Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and creamy.

  6. Serve hot – Stir once more before serving and enjoy!


Notes

  • Don’t overcook! After 2 hours, check for creaminess to avoid dry mac & cheese.
  • Want it extra creamy? Add ½ cup cream cheese or Velveeta for extra smoothness.
  • Crispy topping option: Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and broil for a few minutes before serving.
  • Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce for a Southern kick!