Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese

Step 1

Cook the macaroni noodles according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water to season the pasta. When the pasta is cook, drain.

Step 2

Meanwhile, In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and a pinch of salt and pepper to the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth.

Step 3

Adding just a couple tablespoons at a time, slowly pour the milk into the pan, whisking constantly. After the first few additions of milk, the flour mixture will turn into a paste. Continue whisking and adding the milk until a smooth sauce has formed.

Step 4

Whisking continuously, cook the white sauce over medium heat until it begins to thicken. It is important to stir the mixture while waiting for it to thicken to keep the milk from sticking and burning to the bottom of the pan.

Step 5

Once the white sauce has thickened, add 2 ½ cups of the grated cheese, whisking in one handful of cheese at a time.

Step 6

When the sauce is smooth, stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.

Step 7

Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a cast iron pan or casserole dish.

Step 8

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top of the mixture.

Step 9

Broil in the oven for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and begins to brown.

Step 10

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.