Between juggling meetings and family time, we all need a comforting, delicious meal that doesn’t require us to stand over the stove for hours. Enter Slow Cooker Hamburger Mac & Cheese. This recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty ground beef, all coming together effortlessly in your slow cooker. It captures the nostalgic flavors of childhood favorites but adds a grown-up touch with the slow-cooked depth of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to bring to a potluck, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can’t go wrong.
This Hamburger Mac & Cheese pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad, adding a crunch and some greens to balance the richness of the dish. A side of steamed broccoli or green beans can also be a great addition, bringing some extra vitamins to the table. For a little indulgence, serve it with garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every last bit of that cheesy sauce.
Slow Cooker Hamburger Mac & Cheese
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
12 oz macaroni pasta
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Directions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker.
3. Add the macaroni pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, milk, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to the slow cooker. Stir to combine everything evenly.
4. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese sauce is melted and creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Once cooked, give the mac and cheese a good stir and serve warm. Enjoy!
Variations & Tips
Feel free to add some variety to this dish! Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also toss in some diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of chili powder or some diced jalapeños. If you’re a veggie lover, mix in some spinach or broccoli towards the end of the cooking time. The great thing about this recipe is its versatility, so make it your own!