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
- 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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Shred both the sharp cheddar and American cheese. Make sure the cheese is evenly shredded for the best melting consistency.
- 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.
- 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