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Finished Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese with golden topping.

Effortless Cracker Barrel Macaroni And Cheese Recipe Recipe Packed with Flavor

  • Author: Jenny
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

  1. 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.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens.
  4. Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
  5. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Pour the macaroni and cheese into a 9×13 inch baking dish (optional). Sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown (optional).
  8. 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

Keywords: Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese, macaroni and cheese, mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese recipe, homemade macaroni and cheese, creamy macaroni and cheese, cheese sauce, comfort food, pasta recipe, baked mac and cheese

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