A Simple Cracker Barrel Macaroni And Cheese Recipe: Effortless Comfort for Weeknights 🧀🍝🌟

1. Introduction

When time is short, but the craving for comfort food is strong, this Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese recipe is your ultimate answer. It’s an easy macaroni and cheese dish designed to bring the creamy, cheesy goodness reminiscent of the famous restaurant right to your very own table. It represents the ideal quick fix for those demanding weeknights, this recipe simplifies the entire cooking process without making any sacrifices when it comes to that rich, fulfilling flavor we all crave. If the thought of complicated cooking fills you with dread, worry no more! With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a steaming, satisfying meal ready to devour in absolutely no time. This quick mac and cheese recipe is so undeniably good that it will quickly cement its place as a beloved family favorite! Beyond its deliciousness, it offers a convenient solution for busy individuals seeking a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Looking for another delicious and easy dinner option? Give this classic beef stroganoff recipe a try!

2. Why This Recipe Works

This Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese recipe stands out because it places a strong emphasis on both simplicity and those irresistible classic flavors. By expertly utilizing a winning combination of sharp cheddar and luxuriously creamy Velveeta cheese, you achieve the perfect equilibrium – that sought-after balance of sharpness and smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture that truly makes this dish so incredibly irresistible. The streamlined method we employ means less time spent laboring away in the kitchen, and significantly more time relishing and enjoying a delightful, homemade mac and cheese for busy nights. It’s an incredibly approachable recipe specifically designed with beginner cooks in mind, while still successfully delivering that nostalgic, comforting taste that everyone, without exception, undeniably loves.

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

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

4. Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

5. Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a robust boil. Once boiling, gently add the elbow macaroni and ensure you cook it according to the package directions, until it reaches that perfect “al dente” consistency – firm to the bite. Once cooked, carefully drain the macaroni in a colander and set it aside, ready for its cheesy transformation. Thinking about baking? Check out these blueberry cheesecake cookies!

2. Make the Roux

In a reasonably large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, gradually whisk in the flour and meticulously cook for approximately 1-2 minutes, making sure to stir constantly. This process is crucial as it creates what’s known as a roux, the foundational base for your gorgeously smooth cheese sauce. If you’re looking for another comforting casserole, why not try this cheesy ground beef casserole?

3. Create the Cheese Sauce

Now, it’s time to work your magic! Slowly and deliberately whisk in the milk, paying close attention to ensure that you smooth out absolutely any lumps that may form. Lumps are the enemy of a smooth cheese sauce! Then, bring the divine mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly to prevent sticking or scorching. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, and generously add the salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, and Velveeta cheese. Continue to gently stir until all the glorious cheese is completely melted, transforming the sauce into a velvety smooth and utterly creamy river of cheesy goodness. You can find more dinner ideas in the dinner category.

4. Combine and Serve

Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for! Add the drained macaroni to the luscious cheese sauce and stir lovingly until every single piece is beautifully and generously coated in cheesy perfection. Serve immediately and take immense pleasure in this easy macaroni and cheese masterpiece. Alternatively, for another easy weeknight meal, try this ritz cracker chicken recipe.

6. Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese

• For the most incredible, unforgettable flavor, always use a good quality, sharp cheddar cheese. The better the cheese, the better the mac!
• Be vigilant and don’t overcook the macaroni! Remember, it should be al dente – firm, with a slight bite. Nobody enjoys mushy mac and cheese.
• Before you even think about adding the milk, make absolutely sure that the roux is completely smooth. This is paramount to avoiding those dreaded lumps.
• Keep stirring the cheese sauce consistently to prevent it from sticking to the pan and potentially burning.

7. Variations and Add-ins

Want to jazz up your mac? Here are some ideas:

• Add a sprinkle of golden breadcrumbs on top before baking for a delectable crispy, crunchy crust.
• Mix in some crispy cooked bacon or savory ham for an added layer of flavor and a boost of protein.
• For those who like a fiery kick, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
• Stir in some tender steamed broccoli florets or sweet peas for added nutritional value and vibrant color.

8. Serving Suggestions

This Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Serve it as a classic side dish alongside grilled chicken, smoky BBQ ribs, or even a simple, refreshing salad. It’s also outrageously delicious all on its own as a comforting and satisfying main course, particularly when you’re craving a quick mac and cheese recipe after an extra-long and tiring day. For another comforting soup option, check out this crock pot creamy chicken parmesan soup.

9. Conclusion

This Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese recipe provides a truly fantastic and incredibly satisfying way to enjoy a timeless classic comfort food in a mere fraction of the time it would ordinarily take. Its inherent simplicity makes it an absolutely perfect choice for those hectic and demanding weeknights, while its undeniably delicious, creamy, and cheesy flavor profile will undoubtedly have everyone eagerly asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). So, confidently bid farewell to complicated and time-consuming recipes, and warmly welcome this supremely easy macaroni and cheese into your life – a genuinely satisfying and soul-warming homemade mac and cheese for busy nights. For more easy recipes, you can also check out this recipe. And if you’re in the mood for dessert, why not try these easy strawberry cheesecake rolls or this no-bake cheesy bread from the baking category!

A Simple Cracker Barrel Macaroni And Cheese Recipe Recipe for Busy Weeknights

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• Author: Megan C
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese with this simple and quick recipe, perfect for busy weeknights. A comforting homemade mac and cheese that’s ready in no time!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and add the salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, and Velveeta cheese. Stir until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Serve immediately and enjoy this easy macaroni and cheese.

Notes

• Use good quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente.
• Make sure the roux is smooth before adding the milk to avoid lumps.
• Stir the cheese sauce constantly to prevent it from burning.
• Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top and bake for a golden crust.
• Mix in cooked bacon or ham for added flavor and protein.
• Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Stir in some steamed broccoli or peas for added veggies.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Pasta
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 450 Kcal
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese, mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, easy mac and cheese, homemade mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese recipe, cheese sauce, cheddar cheese, velveeta, comfort food, pasta recipe, side dish, creamy mac and cheese, weeknight dinner