There’s something really special about Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese. Every time I order it with steak, I end up stealing bites from everyone else’s plate.
It’s creamy, mild, buttery, and honestly feels like comfort food done right.
Hi, my name is Dipendra Kumar, and I am a pro chef. I like cooking food for my family and relatives.
I like uploading photos and videos on social media, and I am also a content writer.
Before we cook, here’s a quick look at the recipe overview so you know what to expect.
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
What Is Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese?
Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese is a creamy American-style macaroni dish served as a side, especially popular with kids and families.
Unlike sharp or fancy mac and cheese, this one is smooth, mild, and comforting. It doesn’t overpower your steak—it supports it.
History and Origin
Mac and cheese has been a staple of American comfort food for ages, and restaurants like Texas Roadhouse have made it popular as a dependable, family-friendly side dish.
Over time, the dish became known for being buttery, creamy, and suitable for all ages, especially those with picky eating habits.
What Does Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese Taste Like?
It tastes ultra-creamy, mildly cheesy, and slightly buttery. There’s no sharp bite here.
The sauce is smooth, coats the pasta perfectly, and melts in your mouth. It’s cozy food, plain and simple.
What Makes Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese So Special?
What makes it special is balance. It’s not too cheesy, not dry, not watery.
The texture stays creamy even as it cools a bit, and it pairs with almost everything—steak, chicken, ribs, or even just bread.
Ingredients
Below is the ingredient table for the classic homemade version that tastes closest to the restaurant side dish.
It is said that if the ingredients are right, then the taste of the food increases.
| Amount | Unit | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | oz | Elbow macaroni | Cook until al dente |
| 4 | tbsp | Butter | Unsalted preferred |
| 4 | tbsp | All-purpose flour | For roux |
| 4 | cups | Whole milk | Warmed |
| 1 | cup | Cheddar cheese | Mild or medium |
| ¾ | cup | Gruyere cheese | Adds creaminess |
| ¾ | cup | Mozzarella cheese | Melts smoothly |
| 1 | tsp | Salt | Adjust to taste |
| ¼ | tsp | Black pepper | Optional |
| ¼ | tsp | Nutmeg | Very subtle warmth |
Equipment Needed
| Amount | Equipment | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Large pot | For boiling pasta |
| 1 | Medium saucepan | For cheese sauce |
| 1 | Whisk | Prevents lumps |
| 1 | Wooden spoon | Gentle mixing |
| 1 | Baking dish | Optional for baked version |
| 1 | Colander | Draining pasta |
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until just al dente. I stop a minute early so it doesn’t turn mushy later. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a saucepan over medium-low heat, I melt butter, then whisk in flour. I keep stirring for about 2 minutes until it smells slightly nutty but not brown.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
I slowly pour in warm milk while whisking constantly. This part needs patience. After 5–6 minutes, the sauce thickens gently.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
I reduce the heat to low and add the cheeses gradually. I stir slowly until everything melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Step 5: Season the Sauce
I add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. I always taste here—this step matters more than people think.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
I fold the cooked macaroni into the sauce until every piece is coated.
Step 7: Optional Bake
If I want that bubbly top, I transfer everything to a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese, and bake at 360°F for about 20 minutes.
Delicious Ways to Customize and Serve
I’ve tried this mac and cheese with BBQ ribs, fried chicken, garlic bread, grilled veggies, and even chili. It works every single time.
Sometimes I add bacon bits, sometimes shredded chicken. It’s flexible like that.
Recipe Tips
- I always shred cheese fresh—it melts better
- Warm milk keeps the sauce smooth
- Never rush the cheese melting
- Slightly undercook the pasta
- Let it rest a few minutes before serving
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Cooking
Overheating the cheese sauce can make it grainy. Overcooking pasta ruins texture.
Skipping seasoning makes it flat. I learned all these the hard way, honestly.
Best Cheese Choices for Authentic Flavor
Mild cheddar and mozzarella keep it smooth and kid-friendly. Gruyere adds richness without sharpness. I avoid aged or crumbly cheeses here.
Making This Recipe Healthier Without Losing Taste
Sometimes I use 2% milk instead of whole and reduce the cheese slightly. It’s still creamy, just lighter. I don’t recommend fat-free milk—it changes everything.
Storage Tips and Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, I always add a splash of milk and heat slowly. That brings the creaminess back.
Nutrition Information
Calories: ~380
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Sodium: 450mg
Is Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese Made From Scratch?
The adult side dish is usually made in-house, while the kids’ version is often Kraft. At home, this recipe is 100% from scratch and honestly tastes better.
Why This Mac and Cheese Is So Popular With Kids
It’s mild, creamy, soft, and familiar. No sharp flavors. No surprises. Kids love it, and adults secretly do too.
Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente. I drain it and set it aside.
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, I melt the butter. I whisk in the flour and cook it for about 2 minutes until smooth and lightly golden.
- I slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking constantly. I cook the sauce for 5–6 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- I reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar, gruyere, and mozzarella a little at a time, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
- I season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg, then taste and adjust if needed.
- I add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated.
- For a baked version, I transfer it to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 360°F for 20–25 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
FAQs:-
Is Texas Roadhouse’s mac and cheese made from scratch?
The adult side is usually made in-house, while the kids’ version is often boxed.
What cheese is used in Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese?
It’s made with mild, creamy cheeses like cheddar and American-style cheese.
Is Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese spicy?
No, it’s mild, creamy, and kid-friendly.
Can I bake Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese?
Yes, baking adds a golden, bubbly top.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
I really love how this Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese turns out every time. It’s creamy, comforting, and feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
I make it for family dinners, potlucks, and lazy weekends, and it never disappoints. Try it once, and I promise you’ll come back to it again.
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Happy cooking, and thanks for being here 💛
