Introduction

If ever there were a Southern comfort-food hug for me, it would be Southern Tomato Gravy. This is one of those dishes that wraps its arms around you gently but firmly. It is simple to make, hearty enough to carry you through work or play, and filled with rich, old-fashioned flavor.

Southern Tomato Gravy is a creamy, savory gravy made with fresh or canned tomatoes and traditionally served over biscuits, grits, or rice. It is a classic dish rooted deep in the culinary traditions of the Southern United States, born from generations of cooks who knew how to turn humble pantry staples into satisfying meals.

You are about to discover how a handful of simple ingredients can create something rich, flavorful, and deeply comforting. Some recipes are fancy, but Southern Tomato Gravy is not one of them, and honestly, that is exactly why people love it.

What Is Southern Tomato Gravy?

Southern Tomato Gravy became popular during hard economic times because tomatoes were affordable, easy to grow, and readily available in Southern gardens. Many traditional Southern recipes were created out of necessity, using whatever ingredients families had on hand.

Southern Tomato Gravy has long been a staple across the South. When I was growing up, leftover tomatoes from supper often became tomato gravy over homemade biscuits the next morning, and that was just fine by me.

To better understand Southern Tomato Gravy, here are a few important things to know:

• Southern Tomato Gravy is a traditional Southern dish often served over homemade biscuits, rice, grits, or even mashed potatoes.
• It is typically made with tomatoes, flour, and fat. Bacon grease and butter are the most commonly used fats.
• The gravy is usually seasoned simply with salt and pepper, though many cooks add a pinch of sugar to balance the tomatoes’ acidity.
• Additional ingredients like onions, garlic, herbs, or sausage can be added for extra flavor.
• While tomato gravy is often served for breakfast, many Southern families enjoy it any time of day because it is pure comfort food.
• Every Southern cook has their own special version.

Now that you know the story behind this comforting Southern classic, let’s gather a few simple ingredients, a non-stick skillet, and get ready to make a rich, flavorful batch of Southern Tomato Gravy right in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients You Will Need

Some of the best Southern recipes were created from simple ingredients already sitting in the kitchen or growing in backyard gardens. Tomatoes thrive in the South, and Southern kitchens were rarely without salt, pepper, and bacon drippings for added flavor and richness.

This recipe may have a short ingredient list, but it is definitely not short on flavor.

• Tomatoes (fresh, canned, or stewed)
• Bacon grease or butter
• Flour
• Salt and pepper
• Optional additions: onions, garlic, cayenne pepper, or a pinch of sugar;
• Stir in a heavy cream or milk for a creamier gravy.
• Adding chicken broth creates an even richer, deeper flavor.

This recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create surprisingly big flavor.

How to Make Southern Tomato Gravy

As I mentioned earlier, every Southern cook has their own way of making tomato gravy. So let’s start with the basic version first. Once you master the original recipe, you can have fun experimenting with your own variations later.

Suggested Steps:

1. Fry the diced bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
2. Scoop the bacon from the skillet, leaving the drippings in the pan.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the flour, stirring often as you create a roux.  Cook until lightly golden.
4. Gradually whisk in the crushed or diced tomatoes, including their juices.
5. Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity, then season with salt and pepper.
6. Add chicken broth or milk. I also like to you V-8 juice.
7. Simmer until thickened, then serve over biscuits, grits, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Helpful Tips:

• Gather all ingredients before you begin cooking.
• Stir constantly to help prevent lumps.
• Low heat prevents scorching. Simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
• Adjust the thickness with a little milk for creaminess or chicken broth for a richer flavor
• This is one of those recipes you will quickly file under “easy and good.”

Simple, hearty, and full of old-fashioned Southern flavor, this Southern Tomato Gravy is the kind of comforting recipe that turns an ordinary meal into something warm, memorable, and worth sharing around the table.

Southern Tomato Gravy Recipe

If you are ready for a taste of true Southern comfort food, this easy Southern Tomato Gravy recipe comes together with simple pantry staples and delivers rich, savory flavor in every spoonful.

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Southern Tomato Gravy

Simple yet deeply satisfying, Southern tomato gravy is a rich, savory gravy made by simmering ripe tomatoes with a rich roux of flour and bacon drippings or butter, creating a velvety texture.

Course breakfast, brunch and dinner

Cuisine American Southern

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 8 servings

Calories 70kcal

Author Blissful Foods Plus

Equipment

• 1 12-inch cast iron skillet or
• 1 non-stick skillet
• 1 whisk

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp butter or bacon drippings (from 1/2 lb of sliced bacon cooked)
• ¼ cup onion (finely chopped)
• 1 – 28.0 oz. can of diced tomato (or 3 to 3½ cups fresh diced ripe tomatoes)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 Pinch black pepper
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth I also like to use V8 juice

Instructions

• Heat the bacon drippings or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions, stirring often until the onions have softened,
• Add the flour and stir constantly until it turns a light caramel color. Make sure not to burn the roux. This takes a couple of minutes. Stir in the chicken broth and whisk vigorously until totally incorporated. Continue stirring until thickened,
• Add tomatoes, sugar, pepper, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Continue stirring, reducing the heat to a simmer, leaving uncovered. Cook another 5 minutes just to thicken.
• Once thickened, serve over split hot biscuits or grits. Sprinkle with chopped cooked bacon.

Feel free to add any seasonings you may prefer. This is a basic tomato gravy recipe. I encourage you to get creative with different flavor profiles.

If you tried this recipe, don’t forget to scroll up and tap those stars! I’d love to know how it turned out for you.” 

Notes

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving gravy | Calories: 70kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 468mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g

Nothing pairs better with rich Southern Tomato Gravy than a pan of warm, buttery biscuits, so be sure to check out my homemade Southern Biscuit Recipe for the perfect finishing touch to this comforting meal

Best Ways to Serve Tomato Gravy

Well, I have already shared that this dish feels like a culinary hug to me. Once you make tomato gravy for the first time, you will probably start coming up with your own favorite ways to serve it, too.

Here are a few of mine, in no particular order:

• Over hot buttermilk biscuits
• Spooned over creamy grits
• With fried pork chops
• Alongside eggs and bacon
• Poured over rice or mashed potatoes

Personally, my favorite tomato gravy is made from the drippings left behind after frying pork chops. That extra flavor takes it to another level.

Many Southern families consider biscuits and tomato gravy the very definition of Southern comfort food.

Southern Tomato Gravy Tips and Variations

Once you make tomato gravy for the first time, it probably will not be your last. There are endless ways to customize this simple recipe.

Here are some of my favorite ideas:

• Add crumbled bacon upon serving.
• Use fresh garden tomatoes during the summer.
• Add your favorite fresh herbs.
• Stir in chopped green onions.
• Add extra black pepper for a little kick.
• Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
• For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
• Use heavy cream for extra richness.
• Add chicken broth to deepen the flavor.

Tomato gravy is one of those forgiving recipes that welcomes creativity.

How to Store and Reheat Tomato Gravy

Tomato gravy stores beautifully, and when I make an especially good batch, I always save leftovers for later.

Here are a few simple storage tips:

• Allow the gravy to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
• Tomato gravy freezes well and keeps its quality for up to 3 months.
• Reheat slowly and gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until hot and bubbly.

Gravy may thicken during storage. Adding a splash of chicken broth while reheating will loosen it.

I have lived in the South my entire life, and when people ask me how I would describe it, I always think of simple living, warm hospitality, and meals made from what is fresh and available. Spring arrives in vibrant color, summers overflow with green fields and backyard gardens, and fruit trees grow heavy with sweet, fragrant fruit.

Southern Tomato Gravy still reflects those humble Southern roots today. It proves that simple ingredients can create memorable meals filled with comfort and tradition. It is easy to make, affordable, deeply satisfying, and just as welcome at breakfast as it is at supper.

So grab a few plump, ripe tomatoes and see what all the talk is about.

“One bite of warm biscuits covered in creamy tomato gravy, and suddenly the world feels a little softer.”

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The post Southern Tomato Gravy: Easy Southern Comfort Food appeared first on Blissful Foods Plus.

There is something comforting about a big bowl of Southern Shrimp and Grits. Creamy, buttery, grits topped with succulent shrimp, smoky bacon, and savory seasonings create the kind of meal that feels both cozy and special at the very same time. One bite, and it is easy to understand why this humble Southern favorite has found its way from coastal fishing communities onto restaurant menus all across the country.

The beauty of shrimp and grits is that it never tries too hard. The ingredients are simple. The flavors are rich and satisfying. And while it may sound like a dish reserved for experienced cooks, it is surprisingly easy to make right at home. With a few helpful tips and a little patience, you can serve up a Southern classic that tastes like pure comfort in every bite.

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Southern  Shrimp and Grits

A Dish with Deep Southern Roots

Shrimp and grits began along the South Carolina Low Country coast, where local fishermen prepared simple breakfasts using fresh shrimp and stone-ground grits. Back then, the dish was plain and practical. It was hearty and filling, made with ingredients easy to find near the water.

Over the years, shrimp and grits slowly evolved into one of the South’s most beloved comfort foods. Cooks started adding bacon, sausage, butter, cheese, garlic, and rich seasonings, transforming this modest breakfast into the flavorful dish we know today.

Why People Love It

It is hard not to love the combination of creamy grits and savory shrimp. The textures work beautifully together. The flavors feel rich without being complicated. And even though shrimp and grits look impressive enough for guests, it is still budget-friendly and easy enough for a cozy family supper.

Another reason this dish remains so popular is its versatility. Serve it for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. Dress it up for company or keep it simple for a quiet weeknight meal.

What You Need to Make Southern Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp

Medium or large shrimp work best for shrimp and grits because they stay juicy and tender while cooking quickly. Fresh shrimp are wonderful if you can find them, but frozen shrimp are often the better value and can taste just as delicious.

Save time in the kitchen. When possible, buy shrimp that are already peeled and deveined. Tail-on shrimp look beautiful for presentation, but tail-off shrimp are easier to eat.

Grits

Stone-ground grits give the best flavor and texture, though they take longer to cook. Quick grits are perfectly fine for busy days and still produce creamy, satisfying results. Instant grits, however, tend to lack the rich texture that makes this dish so comforting.

Slow cooking allows the grits to become smooth, creamy, and full of flavor. It is worth the extra few minutes.

Flavor Builders

This dish gets much of its rich Southern flavor from a few simple ingredients:

• Bacon or smoked sausage
• Butter
• Onion and garlic
• Chicken broth or milk
• Sharp cheddar cheese or smoked Gouda
• Cajun seasoning or your favorite Southern spice blend

Each ingredient helps build layers of savory goodness that make shrimp and grits unforgettable.

Tips for Buying Shrimp

When shopping for shrimp, you may notice labels like small, medium, large, or jumbo. For shrimp and grits, I prefer large shrimp. They cook quickly while still giving you a hearty bite.

Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp

Fresh shrimp is king here. Anytime you can get fresh shrimp, use fresh shrimp. However, frozen shrimp are often frozen shortly after being caught, making them a dependable choice for many home cooks. Thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a bowl of cold water for quicker thawing.

Wild-Caught vs. Farm-Raised

Wild-caught shrimp often have a slightly cleaner, sweeter flavor, but good-quality farm-raised shrimp can also work beautifully in this recipe.

Signs of Fresh Shrimp

Fresh shrimp should smell clean and mild, never overly fishy. The flesh should look firm and slightly translucent.

For a complete guide to buying, cleaning, sizing, and preparing shrimp, be sure to visit my Southern Fried Shrimp post, packed with helpful tips, shrimp size charts, and easy kitchen advice.

How to Make Creamy Southern Grits

The secret to wonderful grits is patience. Slow simmering creates the creamy texture everyone loves.

Tips for Perfect Grits Every Time

• Use broth, milk, or a combination of both for extra flavor.
• Stir often to prevent lumps from forming.
• Keep the heat low and gentle.
• Add cheese near the end of cooking for the smoothest texture.
• Finish with butter for extra richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Too Fast

High heat can cause grits to become lumpy or stick to the pan.

Too Little Liquid

Grits naturally absorb liquid as they cook. If they become too thick, simply stir in a little more broth or milk.

Get the Seasoning Correct Early

Season your grits correctly at the beginning. It is hard to season grits for flavor after they are cooked. I prefer to use broth when cooking grits in order to ensure great flavor. If you use salt-seasoned water, stir to dissolve the salt, then taste. It should be easy to drink like a broth.

Wait until the grits are fully cooked before adjusting salt and seasonings.

How to Make Southern Shrimp and Grits

Step 1: Cook the Grits

Bring broth, milk, or water to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in the grits and cook low and slow until creamy and tender.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Aromatics

Cook bacon until crisp, then sauté the onion and garlic in the rendered fat. This step builds a rich, savory base for the shrimp.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Season the shrimp lightly and cook just until pink and opaque. Shrimp cook very quickly, usually only a few minutes per side. Overcooking can make them rubbery.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together

Spoon the creamy grits into bowls, then top with the shrimp mixture. Finish with crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and parsley, and for extra flavor and color, add a sprinkle of sheese on top.

Now that you know a little about the history and charm behind this Southern favorite, it is time for the best part — making a warm, comforting bowl right in your own kitchen. This Southern Shrimp and Grits recipe combines creamy, buttery grits with tender shrimp, smoky bacon, and rich, savory flavor in every bite. It is hearty enough for supper, special enough for guests, and simple enough for even beginner cooks to make with confidence.

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Shrimp and Grits

The perfect marriage of coastal charm and Southern comfort. Tender, succulent shrimp are sautéed in a savory sauce enriched with garlic, smoky bacon, and a touch of spice. The shrimp rest atop a bed of creamy, old-fashioned grits, velvety smooth and infused with the richness of butter and cheese.

Course breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner

Cuisine American

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 688kcal

Author Blissful Foods Plus

Equipment

• 1 large saucepan with lid
• 1 whisk
• 1 large skillet
• 1 slotted spoon

Ingredients

Grits

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups 2% milk
• ⅓ cup butter, cubed
• ¾ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¾ cup uncooked old-fashion grits you can also use quick grits
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded or 1/2 cup sharp cheddar and 1.2 cup smoked Gouda

Shrimp

• 8 thick sliced bacon strips, chopped, cooked, and drained
• 4 tsps bacon drippings (reserved from cooked bacon)
• 1 lb fresh large shrimp (31-40 count per pound) peeled and deveined
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Cajun or blackened seasoning or your favorite Southern seasoning
• 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp butter
• 4 ea. green onion, chopped

Instructions

Grits

• In a large lidded saucepan, bring the broth, milk, salt, and pepper to a boil. Slowly whisk in grits. Reduce heat to a medium low and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until done. Stir in butter and whisk together followed by the cheese. Set aside and keep warm.

Shrimp

• In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. With a slotted spoon remove from pan and place on paper towels to drain. Using the reserved 4 teaspoons of hot bacon drippings, add the shrimp, garlic, and cajun seasoning and saute until the shrimp have turned pink, usually 2-3 minutes per side. Add 1 tbsp butter and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice over the shrimp stir, Add chopped cooked bacon, mixing well. Serve over hot grits. Sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve immediately with hot toasty bread.

If you tried this recipe, don’t forget to scroll up and tap those stars! I’d love to know how it turned out for you.” 

Notes

1 serving = 1 cup of grits plus 1/2 cup of shrimp mixture.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 688kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 41g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Cholesterol: 240mg | Sodium: 1826mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g

One of the best things about Southern Shrimp and Grits is how easy it is to make the dish your own. Some families love it spicy and bold, while others prefer a more traditional Low Country style with simple, comforting flavors. Below are a few delicious variations and serving ideas to help you customize this Southern classic to fit your table perfectly.

Variations to Try

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Add Cajun seasoning and a little extra heat for a bold, spicy version.

Cheesy Shrimp and Grits

Use sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or pepper jack cheese for extra creamy richness.

Low Country Style

Keep things simple and traditional with bacon, shrimp, butter, and stone-ground grits.

Breakfast Shrimp and Grits

For a hearty Southern breakfast, top each bowl with a fried or poached egg.

What to Serve with Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits can easily stand on their own, but a few simple sides make the meal feel even more complete.

• Crusty Bread  or Garlic Bread
• Fresh fruit
• A crisp green salad
• Sweet tea or homemade lemonade

Helpful Kitchen Tips for Shrimp and Grits Success

• Keep cooked grits warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain their creamy texture.
• Use a large skillet so the shrimp cook evenly instead of steaming.
• Prep ingredients ahead of time since shrimp cook quickly once they hit the pan.
• Leftovers reheat best slowly over low heat with a splash of broth or milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use quick grits for this recipe?

Yes. Quick grits work well and save time, although stone-ground grits usually have better flavor and texture.

What type of shrimp works best when cooking shrimp and grits?

Medium or large shrimp are ideal because they stay tender and cook quickly.

Can shrimp and grits be reheated?

Absolutely. Reheat gently and add a little extra liquid to loosen the grits.

Can I freeze shrimp and grits?

Shrimp freeze fairly well, but grits can change texture after freezing. Fresh is usually best.

Are grits gluten-free?

Most plain grits are naturally gluten-free, but always check the packaging for possible cross-contamination.

Storage Tips

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Grits naturally thicken as they cool, so do not be surprised if they seem very firm after refrigeration. Resolve this by adding a splash of milk, broth, or water when reheating to restore their creamy texture.

For best results, reheat slowly on the stovetop or in short intervals in the microwave, stirring often.

Final Thoughts

Southern Shrimp and Grits may sound fancy, but at heart, it is simple comfort food meant to be shared and enjoyed. Creamy grits, savory shrimp, smoky bacon, and rich Southern flavor come together in a dish that feels warm, welcoming, and wonderfully satisfying.

Do not feel intimidated if this is your first time making it. Once you see how quickly it comes together, you may find yourself craving it again and again. Whether you serve it for a cozy family supper, a relaxed weekend brunch, or a special gathering with friends, shrimp and grits always bring a little Southern comfort to the table.

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The post Shrimp and Grits: A True Southern Comfort Food Classic appeared first on Blissful Foods Plus.

Introduction

The biggest food day of the year is about to land on our doorsteps, bringing families and friends together to celebrate every beloved, mouthwatering dish we hold dear. And yes, Holiday Crockpot Mac and Cheese will be right there on that table, stealing hearts one creamy scoop at a time. Down here in the South, it’s the day when all our family kitchen legends show off their best, and now and then, a brand-new holiday cooking star is born. So grab your spoon, settle in, and let’s make a version that might earn a spot on your table year after year.

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Mac and Cheese Comes to America

Before we all started scooping creamy mac and cheese onto our holiday plates, this beloved dish had quite a journey getting here. It’s an American story that begins with James Hemings, an incredibly talented chef who cooked in the kitchen of President Thomas Jefferson. Hemings, an enslaved Black man and the half-brother of Jefferson’s wife, traveled with Jefferson to Paris, where he trained under master French chefs. There, he learned to prepare a luxurious version of macaroni and cheese made with silky béchamel and rich Gruyère.

When he returned to Monticello, Hemings brought that recipe home, giving mac and cheese its very first foothold in America. And while Jefferson often gets the spotlight, it was Hemings’ remarkable skill that truly introduced this dish to the New World.

From those beginnings, mac and cheese slowly made its way from elegant tables to everyday kitchens. Black families, especially throughout the American South, became its devoted caretakers, passing it down through generations and adapting it with love, flavor, and family tradition.

Historical reference adapted from Food Republic

Comfort Food Supreme: Holiday Crockpot Mac and Cheese

Have you ever wondered why mac and cheese always lands in the top five most-loved comfort foods? Even in its simplest form, that creamy, cheesy goodness is soothing, satisfying, and downright comforting from the very first bite to the very last.

Mac and cheese come in all kinds of glorious forms. There’s the extra decadent holiday version, baked in the oven until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling with rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor. And then there’s the stovetop classic — a quick swirl of noodles with butter, milk, and cheese, simple, speedy, and oh my stars always delicious.

No matter how it’s made, mac and cheese has a way of bringing pure joy to the table, and that’s precisely why we keep coming back for more.

And if you’re building a true Southern comfort spread, don’t miss my classic Southern Hashbrown Casserole—and be sure to check out my Surviving Holiday Cooking tips and tricks to keep the whole feast stress-free.

Holiday Mac and Cheese Super Hero: The Crockpot

But as much as we adore a beautiful baked mac and cheese, it does come with one big holiday hiccup — it just doesn’t travel well. It may come out of the oven looking picture-perfect, but by the time it reaches Grandma’s house or the church fellowship hall, those noodles have soaked up every last drop of that creamy goodness. The flavor is still there, but the moisture is not. Gone. And nobody wants dry mac and cheese on the biggest food day of the year.

That’s where my holiday hero steps in the Crockpot. It cooks low and slow, stays creamy for hours, travels like a dream, and shows up at the table just as warm, rich, and velvety as when you make it. Now that’s the kind of mac and cheese that makes everyone smile.

This Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese is the holiday side dish you’ll make year after year. It’s rich, creamy, and velvety-smooth, with that classic Southern comfort we all grew up loving, only easier. No babysitting the stove. No worrying about dry noodles. Just simple ingredients, a slow cooker, and a little patience that pays off most deliciously. It travels beautifully, stays warm for hours, and fits right in on any holiday table, from family dinners to potlucks and church gatherings. One spoonful, and everyone will swear you’ve been stirring over the stove all day, but your secret’s safe with me.

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No-Fail Holiday Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe

This Crockpot Mac and Cheese Recipe is your new holiday lifesaver.  It’s creamy, cozy, and unbelievably smooth. Delivering the kind of comfort food that brings everyone straight to the table.  Made low and slow, it stays velvety for hours and travels beautifully, making it perfect for family gatherings, church dinners, and the busy holidays: no oven, no fuss, no dry noodles, just pure, old-fashioned mac and cheese goodness.

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Holiday Crockpot Mac and Cheese

If you've ever wished your holiday mac and cheese would stay creamy from your kitchen to the car to the dinner table, then this crockpot version is your answer. It's rich, cheesy, and downright irresistible, with that slow-cooked magic that keeps every bite silky and comforting.

Course Dinner, Potlucks, Holiday gatherings, BBQ’s

Cuisine American Southern

Prep Time 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time 2 hours hours

Total Time 2 hours hours 30 minutes minutes

Servings 16 servings

Calories 374kcal

Author Blissful Foods Plus

Equipment

• 1 8 Qt non-stick pot w/lid
• 1 5 Qt colander
• 1 6 Qt crockpot
• 1 grater

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni noodles
• 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese (16 oz.)
• ½ lb sharp white cheddar (8 oz.)
• 3 oz cream cheese (cubed)
• 4 tbsp butter (cubed)
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk (whisk eggs together)
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp nutmeg

Instructions

Prep

• Spray the sides and bottom of your crockpot. Boil your macaroni noodles in a large pot of well-salted water. Only cook them for about 6-7 minutes, remove from the stove, and drain in a colander. Pour cold water over noodles to stop the cooking and rinse off starch, then set aside to drain.
• Shred both cheeses using a grater. While it may be more convenient to buy pre-shredded cheeses, keep in mind that they often have a wax coating that can interfere with melting. For an exceptional mac and cheese, it's best to shred your own cheese to achieve that smooth, creamy consistency we love. Cube 3 ounces of cream cheese and 4 tablespoons of butter, keeping them the same size for even melting. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together one whole egg and one egg yolk until thoroughly combined.

Assembly

• Pour all the elbow macaroni into the Crockpot. Add 1 ½ cups of whole milk and one 12-ounce can of evaporated milk. Scatter the cubes of butter and cream cheese over the noodles. Set aside about 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese for topping, and mix the remaining cheese into the noodle mixture, stirring until well combined.

Cook Mac and Cheese

• Set the crockpot to low and cook for 2 hours. At the 1-hour mark, check the ingredients and stir them. During the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the remaining 1½ cups of cheese as the top layer for the mac and cheese. If you prefer a crunchy topping, toast crushed crackers mixed with butter in the oven first, then sprinkle them over the reserved cheese during the final 15 minutes of cooking for added crispiness. If you have other topping ideas, like adding bacon bits, this would be the time to add them.

Tips

• Here are two important tips for cooking pasta:

  1. Properly salt your pasta water. Add enough salt until the water tastes like a salty broth—right on the verge of being too salty.

  2. Do not fully cook the elbow macaroni. Undercook the noodles so they don’t become mushy. I cook mine for about 7 minutes. Remember, they will finish cooking in the Crockpot. Immediately drain and rinse. If you don't, the noodles will continue to cook somewhat, and the starch from the noodles will thicken the mac and cheese.

  I really enjoy smoky mac and cheese with a crunchy topping. Switch to 8 ounces of Gruyère instead of sharp white cheddar, and definitely add toasted, buttery crushed crackers or breadcrumbs and chopped bacon.

If you tried this recipe, don’t forget to scroll up and tap those stars! I’d love to know how it turned out for you.

Notes

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 374kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Cholesterol: 26mg | Sodium: 355mg | Potassium: 212mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g

Conclusion

Why stress over a dry, less-than-perfect holiday mac and cheese when you can serve one that turns out dreamy every single time? This recipe truly changes the game. It’s an easy, no-fail way to bring one of the most beloved holiday sides to the table—warm, creamy, and crowd-ready from the moment you walk out the door. It travels beautifully, frees up precious oven space, and comes together with almost no effort. Honestly, it’s a win-win dish that delivers perfect results without the drama. So why wait? This is the mac and cheese solution you’ve been looking for.

Good food has a way of slowing us down, bringing us together, and making the simplest moments feel extraordinary.

The post Holiday Crockpot Mac and Cheese: Easy and Crowd-Pleasing appeared first on Blissful Foods Plus.