Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy Comfort 🧀🍝🤤

1. Introduction

Craving the irresistible, comforting taste of Cracker Barrel’s macaroni and cheese? Look no further! This copycat Cracker Barrel mac and cheese recipe brings that classic, creamy goodness right to your kitchen. Imagine serving up a dish of perfectly cooked macaroni smothered in a rich, velvety cheese sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a journey to mac and cheese nirvana! Whether you’re looking for an easy mac and cheese recipe for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish for a special occasion, this homemade macaroni and cheese recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Say goodbye to bland and hello to bold flavor with this ultimate comfort food. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of cheesy perfection with this simple, step-by-step guide. And if you are looking for more dinner ideas, check our Dinner Recipes.

2. What Makes This Recipe Special?

What sets this copycat Cracker Barrel mac and cheese apart from other mac and cheese recipes? It’s all about the creamy, smooth cheese sauce and the simple, yet flavorful ingredients. This homemade macaroni and cheese recipe captures the essence of the beloved Cracker Barrel version, delivering a taste that’s both comforting and satisfying. Using sharp cheddar cheese gives it that distinctive tangy flavor, while the all-important béchamel sauce base ensures a velvety texture that coats every piece of macaroni perfectly. It’s the balance of these elements that elevates this dish to something truly special. Forget about powdered cheese mixes; this recipe is the real deal. Want to spice things up? Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.

If you’re a fan of cheesy dishes, you might also enjoy our Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole. It’s another family favorite that’s sure to please!

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, make sure you have everything on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

4. Equipment

Having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s the equipment you’ll need:

• Large pot
• Saucepan
• Cheese grater
• Whisk
• Mixing spoon
• 9×13 inch baking dish (optional, for baking)

5. Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Cracker Barrel mac and cheese:

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. This is crucial – you don’t want mushy macaroni! Drain the macaroni and set it aside. Running it under cold water can help stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese

While the macaroni is cooking, shred the cheddar cheese. Using freshly shredded cheese is crucial for a smooth and creamy sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly. Trust us, it’s worth the extra effort! For an enhanced flavor, consider using a blend of sharp and mild cheddar. To further improve your cheese recipes, consider trying our Easy No-Bake Cheesy Bread!

Step 3: Make the Béchamel Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This is the foundation of your creamy sauce, so don’t rush it! Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. A smooth béchamel is key to a perfect mac and cheese. And if you’re looking for more comforting recipes like this, you might also enjoy Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup.

Step 4: Combine and Bake (Optional)

Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. For a classic baked version, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Alternatively, serve immediately for a creamy, stovetop version of this homemade macaroni and cheese recipe. A light sprinkle of paprika on top before baking adds a nice touch of color and flavor.

6. Tips for the Perfect Mac and Cheese

Here are some insider tips to ensure your mac and cheese is a resounding success:

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Don’t Overcook the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni until it’s al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the cheese sauce.
• Whisk Constantly: When making the béchamel sauce, whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
• Low and Slow: Melt the cheese over low heat to ensure it melts smoothly and doesn’t become grainy.
• Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. A pinch of nutmeg can also add a lovely warmth.

7. Variations and Add-Ins

Want to customize your copycat Cracker Barrel mac and cheese? Here are some delicious variations and add-ins:

• Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Top the mac and cheese with buttered breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy texture.
• Jalapeños: Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Ham: Incorporate diced ham for a heartier meal. Consider using leftover holiday ham for extra flavor.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Fontina, or Gouda, for a unique flavor profile. For a truly indulgent experience, use a combination of cheeses.

If you enjoy experimenting with bread, consider trying our Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels recipe!

8. Serving Suggestions

This homemade macaroni and cheese recipe is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Serve it as a side dish with:

• Fried chicken
• Barbecue ribs
• Pulled pork
• Meatloaf
• Green bean casserole

It’s also delicious on its own as a comforting and satisfying meal. A simple green salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.

If you are looking for another dish that’s easy, consider our Ritz Cracker Chicken recipe.

9. Conclusion

There you have it—a creamy, dreamy copycat Cracker Barrel mac and cheese recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This easy mac and cheese recipe brings all the comfort and flavor of the restaurant classic right to your table. Whether you bake it or serve it straight from the stovetop, this homemade macaroni and cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. For more details, you can also check out this Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese Recipe. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness of this timeless dish, perfect for any occasion. Looking for more comfort food? Don’t miss our Classic Beef Stroganoff recipe. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a bowl of cheesy perfection! Let’s get cooking!

cracker barrel macaroni and cheese recipe

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• Author: Serena Miller
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Craving Cracker Barrel’s Mac and Cheese? This copycat recipe delivers creamy, cheesy comfort right to your kitchen. A simple homemade macaroni and cheese recipe that’s perfect as a side dish or main course. Enjoy the classic taste with freshly shredded cheddar and a velvety béchamel sauce.

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Shred the cheddar cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts best.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps. Stir until sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to low and gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
7. Optional: Transfer to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Don’t Overcook the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni until it’s al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the cheese sauce.
• Whisk Constantly: When making the béchamel sauce, whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
• Low and Slow: Melt the cheese over low heat to ensure it melts smoothly and doesn’t become grainy.
• Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish, Main Course
• Method: Stovetop, Baked
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 450 Kcal
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 75mg