If you’re in search of the ultimate creamy, luscious comfort food, look no further: Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese will hit the spot every single time. This is the kind of old-fashioned, soul-soothing recipe that’s practically designed to wow both kids and adults at your next potluck, Sunday dinner, or busy weeknight. What makes it shine? Layers of melty cheeses, a silken sauce, and that signature cozy warmth that only a slow cooker delivers. With pantry staples and just a handful of steps, you’ll have a classic mac and cheese that’s effortlessly rich, deeply cheesy, and impossible to resist.

Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese is that each ingredient pulls double duty: not only do they come together with incredible ease, but every one packs flavor, body, and color into your final dish. Here’s how you build that craveable, cheesy magic.

Elbow pasta: The ideal shape for mac and cheese, these little elbows perfectly trap creamy sauce in every nook and cranny.
Butter: Adds essential richness and helps meld all the cheeses into a beautifully smooth sauce.
Shredded cheddar cheese: The star player for bold cheese flavor and golden color in every scoop.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: For that irresistible stretch and extra creamy bite.
Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and a luxuriously silky texture that sets this dish apart.
Canned cheddar cheese soup: The secret hack for ultra-creamy, foolproof cheese sauce even the first-time cook will nail.
Milk: Thins the sauce to the perfect scoopable consistency without sacrificing flavor.
Salt: Brings out all the flavors and balances the richness (don’t skip it!).
Mustard powder: Gives your mac a flavorful, savory edge that deepens every bite.
Paprika: Lends gentle warmth and a pop of color, making your mac and cheese feel as good as it tastes.

How to Make Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your elbow pasta according to the package directions—just until al dente, so the noodles stay springy and don’t turn mushy in the slow cooker. Drain well and set aside; you want every piece ready to soak up all that velvety cheese sauce in a few minutes!

Step 2: Melt Butter and Cheeses

While your pasta is draining, grab a large skillet and melt the butter together with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over medium-low heat. Stir gently and watch as it all transforms into a gorgeous, gooey mixture—this step is how Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese gets its signature rich and oozy base.

Step 3: Build Your Sauce in the Crockpot

Scrape the buttery, cheesy mixture into your crockpot. Add the canned cheddar cheese soup and sour cream, mixing everything until it’s fully combined. This is when that creamy, decadent magic really begins, promising a sauce that clings lovingly to each noodle.

Step 4: Add Pasta, Milk, and Seasonings

Toss in your cooked macaroni along with the milk, salt, mustard powder, and paprika. Stir gently but thoroughly; you want each elbow pasta coated in that outrageously luscious sauce and evenly mixed with all that seasoning. Don’t rush this—every bit should be rich and well combined!

Step 5: Slow Cook to Creamy Perfection

Cover the crockpot and set it to low. Let Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese transform over the next two hours, stirring once or twice if you like. The slow, gentle heat marries the flavors and creates a texture that’s ultra-smooth and impossibly creamy, with just the right balance of gooeyness and baked-in savoriness.

How to Serve Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

This recipe loves a bit of creativity! Top your bowls with a sprinkling of extra cheddar, a dusting of paprika, or chopped chives for a pop of fresh color. Crispy crumbled bacon is another superstar garnish that makes Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese feel just a little extra indulgent.

Side Dishes

Because this mac and cheese is so rich and filling, it pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Try crisp green salads, tangy coleslaw, or steamed broccoli to balance out the creaminess. For a classic Southern spread, serve it alongside fried chicken or collard greens to round out the comfort food experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For potlucks or parties, keep it rustic and ladle straight from the crockpot, or spoon Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese into individual ramekins and top with toasted breadcrumbs for a fun twist. Turn leftovers into cheesy mac-and-cheese muffins by baking scoops in a muffin tin, or fill sliders for an over-the-top sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cool, transfer any extra mac and cheese to airtight containers. It’ll keep fresh in the fridge for up to four days, and you’ll love having creamy homemade comfort food ready for lunch or a quick snack.

Freezing

Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese can be frozen, though the texture may change a bit upon thawing. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to two months—ideal for batch cooking or planning ahead.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftovers in a saucepan with a splash of milk and warm gently over low heat, stirring often until creamy. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, again adding a little milk to keep things luscious. Avoid high heat to prevent separating or drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely! While elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese, you can swap in small shells, cavatappi, or even penne. Just keep the cooking time in mind and don’t overcook before adding it to the slow cooker.

Do I have to use canned cheddar cheese soup?

The cheese soup is a secret weapon for creating a silky sauce, but if you can’t find it, try substituting an equal amount of another creamy condensed soup, or make a quick homemade cheese sauce. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!

What kind of milk works best?

Whole milk is the gold standard for unbeatable creaminess, but you can use 2 percent in a pinch. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, try adding a splash of half-and-half or cream—Paula would approve!

How do I prevent the mac and cheese from getting dry?

Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, and avoid letting the crockpot run longer than needed. Stirring once during the cooking process also helps keep things ultra-creamy and evenly heated.

Can I add proteins or veggies to the recipe?

Absolutely! Stir in cooked, diced ham, rotisserie chicken, or steamed broccoli for a heartier one-pot meal. Add-ins are a fun way to make Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese your own while sneaking in a few veggies for extra nutrition.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a feel-good meal that’s as easy as it is irresistible, give Paula Deen’s Crockpot Mac and Cheese a try. Gathering around to serve this dish will have everyone smiling, and with its velvety texture and rich cheesy flavor, you may find it quickly becomes a regular favorite. Happy scooping!