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Delicious baked Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese in a casserole dish.

cracker barrel macaroni and cheese recipe

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

Description

Recreate the creamy, cheesy goodness of Cracker Barrel’s famous macaroni and cheese with this easy homemade recipe. Baked to perfection, this comfort food classic is a guaranteed family favorite.

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 cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your preference)
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
  5. Remove from heat and stir in salt and pepper. Gradually add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
  6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
  7. Pour macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use high-quality, freshly shredded cheese for the best flavor and creamy texture.
  • Do not overcook the macaroni; it should be slightly undercooked as it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Ensure the roux is smooth before adding milk to prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
  • Monitor baking time to avoid burning; the top should be golden brown and bubbly.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: cracker barrel macaroni and cheese, mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese recipe, homemade mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheese sauce, comfort food, side dish, cheddar cheese, monterey jack, easy recipe, creamy macaroni and cheese

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Find it online: https://dinnerrecipesidea.com/cracker-barrel-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe/