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Delicious Family-Favorite Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese served on a rustic table.

Family-Favorite Cracker Barrel Macaroni And Cheese Recipe Recipe Everyone Will Love

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

Description

Enjoy a family-favorite with this Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese recipe! Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This homemade mac and cheese recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to please everyone.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese. Toss the cheeses together to ensure an even distribution. Sprinkle half of the cheese mixture over the cooked macaroni in the baking dish.
  3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining cheese mixture until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and cheese in the baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the macaroni – al dente is the way to go.
  • Make sure your roux is smooth before adding the milk and cream.
  • Whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent it from burning or clumping.
  • Bake until the top is golden brown and bubbly for that perfect texture.
  • Add bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
  • Stir in cooked vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
  • Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Gouda, for a unique flavor profile.
  • Add a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch.
  • Spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 Kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • 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, macaroni and cheese recipe, homemade mac and cheese, creamy macaroni recipe, baked mac and cheese, family-friendly recipe, comfort food, cheese sauce, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese

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Find it online: https://dinnerrecipesidea.com/family-favorite-cracker-barrel-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe-recipe-everyone-will-love/