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
Keywords: Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese, mac and cheese recipe, baked macaroni cheese, homemade mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cheese sauce, cheddar cheese, Gruyère cheese, comfort food, side dish, casserole