Description
Craving the ultimate comfort food? This Effortless Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese Recipe delivers creamy, cheesy perfection in every bite. A simple, flavorful, and family-friendly dish that’s ready in under an hour!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens.
- Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese into a 9×13 inch baking dish (optional). Sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown (optional).
- Let cool slightly and serve!
Notes
- For the best flavor, use high-quality cheddar cheese.
- Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should be slightly firm (al dente).
- Whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
- Customize with your favorite cheeses like Gruyere, Gouda, or Monterey Jack.
- Add breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Baking (optional) / 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: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg