Classic Style Cracker Barrel Macaroni And Cheese Recipe You Can’t Resist 🧀🧡🤤

1. Introduction

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of a classic comfort food with this **Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese recipe**. If you are a cheese-lover, prepare yourself for a delicious journey! This **homemade macaroni and cheese** dish is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic experience, reminiscent of cozy family dinners and comforting moments. This recipe is a family favorite, known for its rich flavor and perfectly baked texture. Are you tired of the same old recipes? Looking for an **easy mac and cheese** recipe that rivals the famous restaurant version? You’ve come to the right place! This recipe ensures a delightful, crowd-pleasing meal every time. Thinking about what to make for dinner tonight? Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or a special holiday side dish, this **Classic Mac and Cheese** will be a hit! It’s surprisingly simple to make, and the results are incredibly satisfying. For more dinner ideas, check out our collection of dinner recipes.

2. What Makes This Recipe Special?

This **Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese recipe** isn’t just another mac and cheese recipe; it stands out because it replicates the authentic, creamy texture and rich flavor that makes the restaurant version so beloved. Many recipes claim to be the “real deal,” but this one truly delivers on that promise. Unlike other recipes, this method uses a blend of sharp cheddar and American cheese to achieve that perfect balance of tanginess and smoothness, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. You might wonder about the secret ingredient – it’s the careful balance of these cheeses! Baking the **macaroni and cheese** ensures a golden, bubbly top that adds an irresistible layer of texture, making each bite a delightful experience. If you are looking for another beef recipe, check this link. This is more than just an **easy mac and cheese**; it’s a culinary experience that brings comfort and joy, transforming simple ingredients into a masterpiece of flavor and texture. Now that’s something special!

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the instructions, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you need to create this delectable dish:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni – The foundation of our cheesy masterpiece.
• 1/2 cup butter – Adds richness and helps create a smooth sauce.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• 3 cups milk – Creates the creamy base for the cheese sauce.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the cheese and other ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle kick to balance the richness.
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Provides the bold, tangy flavor.
• 1 cup shredded American cheese – Contributes to the creamy, smooth texture.

Having these ingredients ready will make the cooking process seamless and enjoyable. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you love cooking, explore other interesting chicken recipes.

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your own irresistible Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese.

1. Cook the Macaroni

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your macaroni and cheese will bake evenly. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Cooking the macaroni al dente ensures it holds its shape and texture in the final **Classic Mac and Cheese** dish. Overcooked macaroni can become mushy, so keep a close eye on it. While the macaroni is cooking, you might want to explore some breakfast links from here

2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

Shred both the sharp cheddar and American cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly, so grating your own is highly recommended. Combining these two types of cheese gives the **homemade macaroni and cheese** its signature flavor and creamy texture. Make sure the cheese is evenly shredded for the best melting consistency. Set the shredded cheese aside for later use; it’s time to proceed to create the cheese sauce!. If you are searching for some hot soups for the winter, check this link.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until smooth, creating a roux. This is the base of your cheese sauce, so ensure it’s well combined. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. A smooth sauce is key to a creamy mac and cheese! Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the salt and pepper. Remove from heat and add the shredded cheddar and American cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. This creamy cheese sauce is the heart of your **Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese recipe**, so take your time and make it perfect. For a bit of fresh taste, try some salads.

4. Combine and Bake

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined, ensuring every noodle is coated in that luscious, cheesy goodness. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and makes serving easier. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Allowing the **macaroni and cheese** to bake until bubbly ensures a perfect texture and flavor. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning! Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy! You can get more information about the original recipe here

5. Tips for the Perfect Mac and Cheese

Here are some additional tips to ensure your mac and cheese is a masterpiece:

• Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor. The better the cheese, the better the dish!
• Don’t overcook the macaroni; al dente is key. Mushy macaroni ruins the texture.
• Make sure the cheese sauce is smooth and lump-free by whisking constantly. Patience is key!
• For a crispy topping, add breadcrumbs before baking. Panko breadcrumbs work great!

6. Variations to Try

Want to get creative? Here are some variations to try:

• Add bacon or ham for a meaty twist. Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky flavor.
• Mix in vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrients. Sneak in some greens!
• Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Fontina, for a gourmet flavor. Experiment with your favorites!

7. Serving Suggestions

This **Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese recipe** is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a main course or a side dish. If you want some beef recipe to serve together, check this link. It pairs well with:

• Fried chicken – A classic combination!
• BBQ ribs – The perfect comfort food pairing.
• Green salad – Adds a fresh and healthy contrast.

8. Storing and Reheating

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry. If you like deserts, check this link

9. Conclusion

This **Classic Mac and Cheese** recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings the comfort and flavor of Cracker Barrel right to your kitchen. With its creamy texture, rich cheese blend, and easy-to-follow instructions, this **homemade macaroni and cheese** will become a staple in your recipe collection, perfect for any occasion. It is truly an **easy mac and cheese**. Enjoy making this **easy mac and cheese** for your loved ones and savor every delightful bite! Happy cooking!

Classic Style Cracker Barrel Macaroni And Cheese Recipe You Can’t Resist

---

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

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of a classic comfort food with this Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese recipe. This homemade macaroni and cheese dish is a family favorite, known for its rich flavor and perfectly baked texture. An easy mac and cheese recipe that rivals the famous restaurant version.

---

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
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded American cheese

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Shred both the sharp cheddar and American cheese. Make sure the cheese is evenly shredded for the best melting consistency.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth, creating a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the salt and pepper. Remove from heat and add the shredded cheddar and American cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

• Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the macaroni; al dente is key.
• Make sure the cheese sauce is smooth and lump-free by whisking constantly.
• For a crispy topping, add breadcrumbs before baking.
• Add bacon or ham for a meaty twist.
• Mix in vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrients.
• Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Fontina, for a gourmet flavor.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450 Kcal
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese, macaroni and cheese, mac and cheese, cheese sauce, baked mac and cheese, homemade macaroni and cheese, easy mac and cheese, classic mac and cheese, comfort food recipe