Description
Indulge in a comforting and creamy homemade version of Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese! This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for beginners, delivering the classic flavors you love without the fuss. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 tablespoons 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
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish (optional).
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly (optional).
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
- Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese, as it melts more smoothly.
- Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should be slightly underdone before adding it to the cheese sauce.
- For an extra creamy texture, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream to the sauce.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Baking, Boiling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg