Slow Cooker Creamy Beef & Cheddar Mac

Slow Cooker Creamy Beef & Cheddar Mac is the kind of comforting dinner that feels nostalgic while still fitting modern, busy lifestyles. First, tender ground beef slow-simmers in a creamy, seasoned sauce. Then, macaroni cooks right in the crockpot, soaking up every rich, cheesy flavor. As a result, dinner comes together effortlessly, without sacrificing taste or texture.

While boxed versions became popular in the 1970s for convenience, homemade versions like this bring warmth and depth back to the table. Instead of powders, this recipe uses real cheese, cream, and slow cooking to create a silky sauce that feels both familiar and elevated. Additionally, the slow cooker does all the work, which makes this dish ideal for relaxed family dinners or cozy weekends.

Most importantly, this recipe delivers hearty comfort without feeling heavy or artificial. Whether you grew up loving hamburger helper or you’re simply craving a creamy beef pasta, this version offers everything you love—only better.

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

8 oz uncooked elbow macaroni
1 lb lean ground beef
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp black pepper
¾ tsp salt
2 cups beef broth
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 Tbsp tomato paste
2 Tbsp unsalted butter
2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Brown the beef:
First, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat, then transfer beef to the slow cooker.

2. Build the flavor base:
Next, add onion, garlic, paprika, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the beef.

3. Add liquids:
Then, pour in beef broth, milk, heavy cream, and tomato paste. Stir until smooth and fully combined.

4. Slow cook:
Cover and cook on LOW for 2½ hours, stirring once halfway through for even flavor.

5. Add pasta:
After that, stir in uncooked macaroni. Cover and cook 30–40 minutes, stirring once, until pasta is tender.

6. Finish with cheese:
Finally, stir in butter, cheddar, and mozzarella until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

7. Serve:
Garnish with parsley and serve warm for a cozy, comforting finish.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Control the creaminess: Because slow cookers vary, stir during the pasta stage so noodles cook evenly and stay creamy instead of dry.
• Cheese matters: For best texture, shred cheese fresh. Pre-shredded cheese melts less smoothly due to added stabilizers.
• Balance the richness: If the sauce feels heavy, stir in 2–3 Tbsp warm broth just before serving to loosen it perfectly.