Slow Cooker Salsa Macaroni

This slow cooker salsa macaroni is an easy, creamy, and comforting pasta recipe made with just three simple ingredients. Tender pasta shells cook slowly in chunky tomato salsa and cream cheese, creating a rich, tangy, cheesy sauce that is perfect for busy weeknights.

This easy slow cooker pasta recipe is budget-friendly, vegetarian, and ideal when you need a warm homemade dinner with very little prep.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Salsa Macaroni

• Made with only 3 simple ingredients
• Easy budget-friendly family dinner
• Minimal prep and no stovetop needed
• Creamy, cheesy, and full of tangy salsa flavor
• Great for busy weeknights, students, and quick comfort meals
• Easy to customize with chicken, ground beef, or vegetables

Ingredients for Creamy Salsa Macaroni

• 16 ounces uncooked small pasta shells, elbow macaroni, or small rotini
• 24 ounces chunky mild or medium tomato salsa
• 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes

How to Make Slow Cooker Salsa Macaroni

1. Lightly grease the inside of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent the pasta from sticking.
2. Add the uncooked pasta shells to the bottom of the slow cooker and spread them into an even layer.
3. Pour the chunky salsa over the pasta. Stir gently so most of the pasta is coated with salsa.
4. Place the cream cheese cubes evenly over the top. Do not stir at this stage, as the cream cheese will melt more smoothly during cooking.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 1½ to 2 hours.
6. After about 1 hour, stir the pasta thoroughly. Make sure to lift any pasta from the bottom and mix the melting cream cheese into the salsa.
7. Continue cooking, stirring every 20 to 30 minutes, until the pasta is tender and the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
8. Once the pasta is cooked, switch the slow cooker to WARM. Give the salsa macaroni one final stir and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Creamy Salsa Pasta

If your salsa is very thick, add ¼ to ⅓ cup of water at the beginning of cooking. This gives the pasta a little extra moisture to absorb while it cooks.

For a spicier version, use medium or hot salsa, or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. For a milder and extra creamy dish, use mild salsa and stir in a spoonful of sour cream before serving.

You can also add cooked shredded chicken, browned ground beef, or roasted vegetables during the last 15 minutes of cooking to turn this easy salsa macaroni into a more filling meal. For extra cheesy flavor, stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese just before serving.

What to Serve with Salsa Macaroni

Serve this creamy slow cooker pasta with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, roasted broccoli, or cucumber salad. Warm dinner rolls, cornbread, or buttered toast are also great for soaking up the tangy cheese sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover salsa macaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave with a small splash of water, stirring halfway through, to bring back the creamy texture.