Slow Cooker Canned Pea Macaroni is a simple, budget-friendly comfort dish that turns pantry staples into a warm, satisfying meal. With tender macaroni, soft peas, and a creamy, flavorful base, this recipe is perfect for busy days, quick dinners, or feeding a family without spending much time or money.
The slow cooker makes everything effortless—allowing flavors to blend while you go about your day. Whether you keep it basic or add cheese, protein, or extra seasonings, this dish is versatile, filling, and easy to customize.
Ingredients
This recipe uses basic pantry ingredients that come together beautifully.
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 can (15 oz) peas, drained
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Optional Enhancements
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese
Optional Protein Additions
- 1 cup cooked chicken
- ½ cup cooked bacon
- 1 cup sausage or ground beef
Why These Ingredients Work
Macaroni: Absorbs flavors and creates a hearty base.
Peas: Add sweetness and texture.
Milk and broth: Form a creamy sauce.
Butter: Enhances richness.
Seasonings: Add depth.
How To Canned Pea Macaroni
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Drain canned peas.
Measure pasta and liquids.
Step 2: Add to Slow Cooker
Add:
- Macaroni
- Peas
- Milk
- Broth
- Butter
- Seasonings
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cook on:
- LOW for 2–3 hours
or - HIGH for 1–1.5 hours
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Add Cheese (Optional)
Once pasta is tender, add cheese.
Stir until melted and creamy.
Step 5: Adjust Texture
Add milk if too thick.
Cook uncovered if too thin.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm and creamy.
You Must Know
1. Stir Occasionally
Prevents pasta from sticking.
2. Don’t Overcook
Pasta can become mushy
3. Add Cheese at the End
Prevents clumping.
4. Use Enough Liquid
Ensures even cooking.
5. Taste Before Serving
Adjust seasoning.
Topping Variations
Cheesy Version
Add extra cheese on top.
Bacon Topping
Adds crunch and flavor.
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
Garlic Butter
Adds richness.
Herb Style
Add parsley or dill
Creamy Finish
Add sour cream.
Make It A Meal
Add Protein
- Chicken
- Sausage
- Ground beef
Serve With Sides
- Salad
- Bread
- Vegetables
Family Dinner
Serve with:
- Drinks
- Dessert
Meal Prep
Store in containers for later.
Pro Tips
1. Use Whole Milk
Creates richer sauce.
2. Add Cream Cheese
For extra creaminess.
3. Don’t Skip Butte
Enhances flavor.
4. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
Melts better.
5. Reheat with Milk
Restores texture.
6. Make Ahead
Tastes better next day.
7. Freeze Portions
Freeze up to 2 months.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh peas?
Yes, but cooking time may vary.
Why is my pasta mushy?
It was overcooked.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, use vegetable broth.
How long do leftovers last?
Up to 3–4 days.
Can I use different pasta?
Yes, adjust cooking time.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, but texture may change.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, carrots or corn work well.
Is this dish healthy?
It’s simple and can be made healthier with adjustments
