Introduction
Cracker Barrel's mac and cheese has become a beloved comfort food for many, thanks to its creamy texture and rich flavor. This dish made waves for its cheesy goodness, and it holds a special place on their menu. If you've ever wished to recreate that warm, nostalgic taste in your own kitchen, you're in luck.
With a few simple ingredients, you can craft a version that rivals the classic recipe. Even better, this homemade rendition is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy weekends. Embrace the comfort of mac and cheese with this copycat version that’s sure to please hungry palates.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
Macaroni serves as the base of any great mac and cheese, providing that traditional shape and texture that holds the cheese well. Using a sturdy yet tender pasta ensures the dish won’t become mushy during cooking. - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Sharp cheddar brings a bold flavor that complements the creaminess of this dish. The sharper the cheese, the more pronounced the taste, making each bite rich and satisfying. - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella adds a lovely creaminess and stretchiness, creating that coveted gooey texture. Combining it with cheddar enhances overall flavor and mouthfeel. - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese contributes a nutty depth of flavor to the dish. Its salty and robust notes balance the richness of the cheddar and mozzarella beautifully. - 3 cups milk
Milk is essential for creating the creamy sauce in which the pasta will be enveloped. Whole milk is preferred for its rich flavor and ability to create a silken texture. - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Butter adds a luxurious creaminess and richness, helping to create the sauce while also adding a buttery flavor to the dish. - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Flour acts as a thickening agent in the cheese sauce, creating a smooth and stable base that helps to achieve that desired consistency. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder enhances the flavor profile by adding aromatic notes, giving the dish a little extra warmth and depth without overwhelming the cheese. - 1 teaspoon onion powder
Onion powder contributes subtle sweetness and complexity, making the cheese sauce more flavorful without the texture of fresh onions. - Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning is vital in bringing out the flavors of the cheese and other ingredients. Balancing salt and pepper enhances the overall taste, ensuring a delicious result.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
Cooking the macaroni al dente is crucial for this dish. This allows the pasta to absorb the cheese sauce without becoming mushy. Make sure to reserve some pasta water before draining; it can help adjust the sauce consistency later.
Step 2: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Melting butter creates a rich base for the cheese sauce. Be mindful not to brown the butter, as this will alter the flavor. Stir the butter until fully melted and bubbling, ensuring even cooking.
Step 3: Sprinkle the flour into the melted butter and whisk continuously for about one minute.
Creating a roux with the butter and flour is a critical step for thickening the sauce. Cooking the mixture for a minute removes the raw flour taste while integrating the two ingredients, setting the stage for a creamy sauce.
Step 4: Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth, then continue cooking until the mixture thickens.
Adding milk gradually helps avoid lumps in your sauce, which is essential for a creamy texture. As the mixture heats, it will thicken and bubble, creating the perfect base for your cheesy concoction.
Step 5: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
This is the moment to infuse your sauce with flavor. Garlic and onion powders add depth without overwhelming the cheese's richness. Tasting the sauce and adjusting seasoning ensures a balanced flavor.
Step 6: Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the cheeses until melted and smooth.
Adding the cheese off the heat prevents it from becoming grainy while melting. Stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth mixture ensures that every bit of pasta will be covered in cheesy goodness.
Step 7: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing thoroughly.
This step is all about ensuring every piece of macaroni is enveloped in the creamy sauce. Use a spatula to fold the pasta into the sauce gently, preventing breakage and ensuring an even distribution.
Step 8: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with remaining cheese if desired.
Baking the mac and cheese creates a beautiful crust on top. Adding more cheese before baking enhances the gooey texture and gives an appealing golden-brown finish. This step adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
Step 9: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Baking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while creating a crusty top layer. Keeping an eye on the mac and cheese while it bakes will ensure it's perfectly cooked, with a delightful contrast between creamy and crispy.
Why Use Multiple Cheeses?
Combining different types of cheeses results in a mac and cheese that boasts a complex flavor profile. Each cheese plays its part; the sharpness of cheddar stands out while mozzarella lends creaminess. Additionally, using Parmesan contributes a savory richness, making each bite a standout experience that keeps you coming back for more.
The Key to Creaminess
The foundation of creamy mac and cheese lies in the roux and the right balance of milk to cheese. Creating a thick bechamel sauce allows the cheese to melt seamlessly into the dish without becoming oily or separated. The gradual incorporation of milk keeps the texture silky, ensuring a comforting finish that feels indulgent with every spoonful.
Perfect Pairing with Mac and Cheese
While Cracker Barrel's mac and cheese is delicious on its own, it can be enhanced by accompanying it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. The acidity from a tangy vinaigrette will cut through the richness, while roasted veggies add a delightful textural contrast. Serving this mac and cheese along with grilled chicken or barbecue brisket completes the meal perfectly.
FAQs
What can I do if my cheese sauce turns out too thick?
If your cheese sauce is too thick, gradually add a splash of milk while stirring over low heat until you achieve the desired consistency. This will help loosen the sauce without compromising flavor.
Is it possible to scale this recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes, this recipe can easily be scaled up. Simply double or triple the quantities of each ingredient, and ensure you use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased volume.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Absolutely! Pre-shredded cheese can save time, but be aware that it often contains anti-caking agents that might affect melting slightly. For the best flavor and texture, freshly shredded cheese is recommended.
What should I do if my mac and cheese is too bland?
Enhancing flavor can be done by adding more seasoned salt or a touch of mustard powder for depth. You can also sprinkle some paprika or ground red pepper for a little kick!
Conclusion
Creating a copycat version of Cracker Barrel's famous mac and cheese at home allows you to enjoy this classic dish whenever the craving strikes. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your repertoire.
Next time you sit down for a comforting meal, remember this recipe and the warmth it brings to the table. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite protein, this mac and cheese is a sure way to delight family and friends alike.
Recipe Card
Cranberry Meatballs for Effortless Entertaining
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, cranberry sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare additional cranberry sauce if desired for serving.
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and additional cranberry sauce on the side.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
