Description
Recreate the iconic Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese at home with this foolproof recipe. Simple ingredients and clear instructions guarantee a creamy, decadent, and irresistible baked mac and cheese that rivals the restaurant version. Perfect as a side dish or a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: Combine the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese in a large bowl. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until a smooth paste forms (a roux). Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the salt and pepper.
- Cook the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Add the cooked macaroni to the béchamel sauce and stir to combine. Gradually mix in the cheese mixture, reserving about 1 cup for topping. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- For an extra creamy texture, add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the béchamel sauce.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. Gruyère, Fontina, and Gouda all work well in this recipe.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking.
- Ensure the macaroni is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Let the homemade mac and cheese rest for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set slightly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg