When the craving for comfort food strikes, nothing quite compares to a dish that blends nostalgia and rich flavors – like this Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese. I first recreated this classic favorite after a long week filled with hectic schedules and fast food. Just the thought of that velvety cheese sauce melting over perfectly cooked elbow macaroni made my heart skip a beat.
With only eight simple ingredients, this recipe easily transforms into the star of your dinner table, whether it serves as a side or the main attraction. The crispy, golden topping is the cherry on top, giving you that delightful crunch with every creamy bite. From busy weeknights to family gatherings, this dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this irresistible comfort food that will take your taste buds on a delicious journey!
Why is Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese a Must-Try?
Comforting, this mac and cheese is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Rich, creamy goodness hugs each piece of pasta, elevating your comfort food experience. Versatile enough to customize with different cheeses or add-ins like meat and veggies, this dish caters to all preferences. Time-saving, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. Plus, with just eight simple ingredients, you’ll find that it’s as easy to make as it is to devour! For more enticing comfort food, check out my delicious Baked Ziti recipe.
Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese Ingredients
• Dive into the savory delight of Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese with just a handful of ingredients!
For the Pasta
- Elbow Macaroni – Provides the structure of the dish; substitute with any pasta shape that can hold the cheese sauce.
For the Cheese Sauce
- Salted Butter – Used to create the roux for the cheese sauce; can substitute with unsalted butter but adjust salt levels.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce; no direct substitutes, though gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option.
- Whole Milk – Adds creaminess to the sauce; for a richer flavor, substitute with heavy cream.
- Colby Jack Cheese – The primary cheese for authenticity; alternatives include sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère for different flavors.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; use to taste.
- Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; adjust according to preference.
For Garnish
- Parsley – Adds a touch of color and freshness to your dish.
How to Make Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese
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Gather Ingredients: Start by laying out all your ingredients—macaroni, butter, flour, milk, cheese, salt, and pepper. This ensures a smooth cooking experience.
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Cook Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, ready to soak in that cheesy goodness.
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Make Roux: In a saucepan, melt salted butter over medium heat. Add flour, seasoning with salt and pepper, cooking for about 2 minutes. This mix creates a roux, essential for thickening your sauce.
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Add Milk: Gradually stir in the whole milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and is smooth, resembling a creamy dream.
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Melt Cheese: Stir in 2 1/2 cups of shredded Colby Jack cheese until it’s fully melted and beautifully integrated into the sauce.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni with your luscious cheese sauce, making sure every piece is well coated in that rich mixture.
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Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish or cast-iron skillet. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that unstoppable cheesy finish.
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Broil: Broil your mac and cheese for about 4 minutes, just until the top becomes golden brown and bubbly—the perfect finishing touch!
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Garnish and Serve: Top with freshly chopped parsley for a splash of color and freshness, then serve warm and watch it disappear!
Optional: Add crispy bacon bits for an extra savory kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese?
A deliciously creamy mac and cheese can shine even brighter with the right accompaniments that perfectly balance its rich flavors.
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Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a refreshing crunch, contrasting beautifully with the creamy texture of the mac and cheese. Think of a light vinaigrette to uplift each bite!
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Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks are the ideal sidekick, perfect for scooping up leftover cheese sauce. Their fluffy texture is irresistible alongside this comforting dish.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like zucchini or carrots, bring a touch of earthiness and color, enhancing your mac and cheese with wholesome goodness.
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Pulled Pork: For a heartier meal, serve with savory pulled pork. The smoky flavor elevates your plate, creating a satisfying combo of textures and tastes.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast and crunch, making every bite of mac and cheese more exciting.
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Sweet Tea: This classic Southern beverage pairs perfectly, offering a sweet and refreshing balance to the rich, cheesy dish.
Embrace this mac and cheese adventure by mixing and matching these delicious sides, and don’t be surprised when everyone goes back for seconds!
Expert Tips for Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese
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Shredded Cheese Choice: Always shred your cheese at home. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your creamy sauce.
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Slow Milk Addition: Add the milk gradually while stirring to maintain a smooth consistency in your cheese sauce. Rushing this step may lead to clumps.
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Perfect Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni only until al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy when mixed with the rich and creamy sauce.
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Watch the Heat: Keep your heat at medium when making the cheese sauce. This prevents burning and ensures a perfectly melted, velvety sauce.
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Storage Savvy: For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, and reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess in your Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese.
Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese Variations
Feel free to give this beloved dish your own twist with these delightful variations!
- Cheese Swap: Use sharp cheddar instead of Colby Jack for a bolder, more intense flavor.
- Add Protein: Incorporate shredded chicken, bacon bits, or ground beef to make it a heartier meal.
- Veggie-Loaded: Mix in cooked broccoli, bell peppers, or caramelized onions for added nutrition and a burst of color.
- Spicy Kick: Substitute pepper jack cheese for a zesty twist that warms up your taste buds.
- Creamy Vegan Option: Replace cheese with a vegan cheese blend and use almond milk to keep it plant-based yet creamy.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce for an additional layer of flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant burst of freshness that transforms this comfort dish.
- Crispy Topping: Top with crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs before broiling for an extra crunch that complements the creamy goodness beneath.
Let your creativity shine and enjoy this mac and cheese in new, exciting ways!
Make Ahead Options
These comforting Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the macaroni up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating them separately in airtight containers. To maintain the quality, ensure the cheese sauce is kept sealed to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the macaroni and cheese sauce, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and broil for about 4 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade comfort food ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing for the best preservation.
Freezer: You can freeze the mac and cheese for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) with a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture.
Make-Ahead: Feel free to prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just broil it before serving for that crispy top you crave!
Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of macaroni works best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice because its shape holds the rich cheese sauce beautifully. However, you can swap it for other pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi that can capture the creamy goodness just as well!
How long does Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese last in the fridge?
Very! You can store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing it to maintain its quality and prevent unwanted moisture buildup.
Can I freeze this mac and cheese?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion your mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers, allowing some space for the pasta to expand as it freezes. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C), adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
How can I prevent my cheese sauce from becoming lumpy?
Absolutely, here’s how: When adding milk, do it gradually while continuously whisking. This helps the sauce incorporate smoothly. Also, ensure your roux has cooked adequately (about 2 minutes) before adding milk; a well-cooked roux reduces clumping. If you notice lumps, you can whisk vigorously or use an immersion blender to create that silky texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If anyone in your family has a gluten intolerance, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For those with dairy allergies, consider using non-dairy milk (like almond milk) and a plant-based cheese substitute to enjoy this comforting dish without worry. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients align with dietary needs!
Can I customize my Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese?
Very! This recipe is versatile. You can swap Colby Jack for sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor or sneak in veggies like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition. For a heartier option, try adding cooked chicken or crispy bacon bits! The more, the merrier—make it your own!
Creamy Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese You’ll Crave Again and Again
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather Ingredients: Start by laying out all your ingredients—macaroni, butter, flour, milk, cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Roux: In a saucepan, melt salted butter over medium heat. Add flour, seasoning with salt and pepper, cooking for about 2 minutes.
- Add Milk: Gradually stir in the whole milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
- Melt Cheese: Stir in 2 1/2 cups of shredded Colby Jack cheese until fully melted.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Broil: Broil your mac and cheese for about 4 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with freshly chopped parsley for a splash of color, then serve warm.
