This 4-ingredient slow cooker elbow macaroni is an easy family dinner made with a few simple ingredients. Dry macaroni cooks directly in the slow cooker with chicken broth, cream cheese, and cheddar, creating a creamy and comforting meal with very little prep.

Serve it as a simple main dish with a green salad, steamed broccoli, green beans, or sliced tomatoes. Garlic bread or peas are also easy additions when you want a heartier meal.

 

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 1/2–2 1/2 hours
Total Time: About 1 hour 35 minutes to 2 hours 35 minutes

 

Ingredients

• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

 

Instructions

1. Prepare the slow cooker: Lightly coat the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick spray or a thin layer of butter.
2. Add the ingredients: Add the dry elbow macaroni, chicken broth, cubed cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Stir: Gently stir everything together, making sure the macaroni is coated and the cream cheese is distributed throughout.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours, stirring once or twice during cooking. Cook until the macaroni is tender and the sauce is creamy. If it becomes too thick before the pasta is ready, add a small splash of hot broth or water.
5. Finish: Turn off the slow cooker and let the macaroni rest for about 5 minutes. Stir once more and serve warm.

 

Tips and Variations

• Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a looser sauce, stir in 1/4 to 1/2 cup warm broth at the end.
• Use mild cheddar: Mild cheddar gives the dish a gentler flavor that works well for family meals.
• Add protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken, browned ground beef, or diced ham after the macaroni is finished.
• Watch the cooking time: Slow cookers vary, so begin checking the pasta early. Once the macaroni is tender, turn off the slow cooker to prevent the sauce from becoming overly thick.

 

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy macaroni with steamed vegetables, a simple salad, roasted green beans, or sliced tomatoes. Warm garlic bread also makes an easy side.

 

Storage

• Let leftovers cool and refrigerate them in a covered container. Reheat gently with a small splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
• This simple slow cooker macaroni is a practical option when you want a warm, cheesy family meal without spending much time in the kitchen.