When you have ever ordered Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe,then you understand how fat, creamy and cozy it is. It is easy, yet it just seems to taste different, smooth cheese sauce, warm pasta, and that buttery taste that makes you just want to have more.
I am today presenting my own recipe of Mac and Cheese Texas Roadhouse Recipe that will provide you with the same creamy texture and strong cheesy taste in your own kitchen.
And the best part? It’s easier than you think.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ultra creamy and smooth texture
Simple ingredients you probably already have
Ready in about 30 minutes
Kid-friendly and family-approved
Tastes like real texas roadhouse mac and cheese
If you’re searching for the best mac and cheese recipe that feels indulgent but is still easy to make, this one is for you.
Hi, I’m Mayank, the home cook behind The Calorie Curry. I spend most of my time experimenting in my kitchen, cooking for friends and family who often say my food tastes like it came from a pro chef. Their honest feedback and my love for simple, homemade cooking inspire every recipe I share here.
What This Recipe Is
It is a creamy stovetop-based Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe prepared using tender elbow pasta and a cheddar-based cheese sauce.
It’s not baked.
It’s not dry.
It is creamy, silky, and just cheesy as an easy recipe of a mac and cheese ought to be.
Ingredients
| Amount | Unit | Ingredient Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 ½ | cups | Elbow macaroni | Cook until al dente |
| 3 | tbsp | Butter | Unsalted |
| 3 | tbsp | All-purpose flour | For roux |
| 2 | cups | Whole milk | Slightly warm |
| ½ | cup | Heavy cream | For richness |
| 2 ½ | cups | Sharp cheddar cheese | Freshly grated |
| ½ | tsp | Garlic powder | Optional but recommended |
| ½ | tsp | Salt | Adjust to taste |
| ¼ | tsp | Black pepper | Freshly ground |
Equipment
| Amount | Equipment Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Large pot | For boiling pasta |
| 1 | Colander | To drain pasta |
| 1 | Medium saucepan | For cheese sauce |
| 1 | Whisk | Prevents lumps |
| 1 | Wooden spoon | For mixing |
Why Each Ingredient Is Important
- Elbow macaroni – Classic shape that holds sauce perfectly.
- Butter + flour – Create the base (roux) for thick, creamy sauce.
- Milk + cream – Give smooth, rich texture.
- Sharp cheddar – Main flavor base. Bold and cheesy.
- Garlic powder – Adds subtle depth.
- Salt & pepper – Balance and enhance all flavors.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7–8 minutes).
Drain and set aside.
Do not overcook — soft pasta makes mushy mac and cheese.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a saucepan over medium heat:
Melt butter
Add flour
Whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes
The mixture should look smooth and slightly golden.
Step 3: Add Milk and Cream
- Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add heavy cream.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Lower the heat.
- Add grated cheddar gradually, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Never add cheese on high heat — it can become grainy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce.
- Stir gently until every piece is coated in creamy goodness.
- If needed, add a splash of warm milk to adjust thickness.
- Serve immediately.
Tips for Best Results
Always grate cheese yourself (pre-shredded has anti-caking agents)
Use medium heat only
Slightly undercook pasta
Warm milk before adding
Stir constantly while making sauce
These small steps make this the best mac and cheese recipe at home.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overheating cheese sauce
Skipping the roux step
Adding cheese too quickly
Using low-fat milk only
Overcooking pasta
Health / Calorie-Friendly Notes
If you want to make it lighter:
Use 2% milk instead of heavy cream
Reduce cheese by ½ cup
Add steamed broccoli or spinach
Use whole wheat pasta
You’ll still get a delicious result with slightly fewer calories.
Variations and Substitutions
Add crispy bacon bits
Stir in grilled chicken
Mix in smoked gouda
Add a pinch of paprika
Top with toasted breadcrumbs
You can easily customize this texas roadhouse mac and cheese to your taste.
What to Serve It With
Steak (perfect Texas-style pairing)
BBQ ribs
Fried chicken
Garlic bread
Fresh green salad
It works beautifully as a side or even a main dish.
Storage Tips
Store in airtight container
Refrigerate up to 3 days
Reheat with splash of milk
Stir halfway if microwaving
For best results, reheat on stovetop over low heat.
Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7–8 minutes).
- Drain and set aside.
- Do not overcook — soft pasta makes mushy mac and cheese.
- In a saucepan over medium heat:
- Melt butter
- Add flour
- Whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes
- The mixture should look smooth and slightly golden.
- Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add heavy cream.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Lower the heat.
- Add grated cheddar gradually, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Never add cheese on high heat — it can become grainy.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce.
- Stir gently until every piece is coated in creamy goodness.
- If needed, add a splash of warm milk to adjust thickness.
- Serve immediately.
FAQs
Is this the exact Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese recipe?
This is my home made version which was inspired by the restaurant version of the texas roadhouse mac and cheese with its creamy texture and taste replicated.cap
Can I bake this recipe?
Yes. Transfer to baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.
Why is my sauce grainy?
Cheese was added on high heat. Always melt on low heat.
Can I freeze macaroni and cheese?
You can, but texture may slightly change. Add milk when reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Mac and Cheese is a rich, creamy, and pure comfort food, and made in Texas Roadhouse. It is easy enough to do on a weeknight and nice enough to serve visitors.
I appreciate the fact that it is so simple to prepare, but it tastes as though you went to your favorite steakhouse and you ordered it.
Should you give this recipe, then do give me an account of how it works out in your kitchen. My intention at The Calorie Curry is to make restaurant style food reachable and attainable at home.
