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Crockpot Mac and Cheese With Kielbasa

Crockpot Mac and Cheese With Kielbasa Recipe

Olivia Brooks
Cozy up with Crockpot Mac and Cheese With Kielbasa, a creamy slow cooker dish made with macaroni, cheddar cheese, cream, butter, and smoky kielbasa.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (4–6 quart works best)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Large spoon or spatula for stirring

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 12 –14 oz kielbasa sliced into rounds
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter cubed
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Optional ingredients:

  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for heat
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard for depth
  • Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Kielbasa

  • Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized rounds. If you like a deeper, caramelized flavor, you can quickly brown it in a skillet, but it’s completely optional — the crockpot will still bring out plenty of smokiness.

Step 2: Add the Pasta

  • Place the uncooked macaroni directly into the crockpot. This might feel strange if you’re used to boiling pasta, but trust me — it works beautifully here.

Step 3: Layer the Cheeses

  • Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan on top of the pasta. As they melt, they’ll create a luscious, layered cheese sauce.

Step 4: Pour in the Dairy

  • Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream. The liquid should just cover the pasta. This is where the magic starts to happen.

Step 5: Season and Butter

  • Add the butter cubes, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Gently stir everything together so the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection

  • Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours, stirring once or twice if possible. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy and cohesive.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

  • Turn off the heat and let the mac and cheese rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
Keyword Crockpot Mac and Cheese With Kielbasa