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Red Robin Mac and Cheese Recipe

Red Robin Mac and Cheese Recipe

This Red Robin Mac and Cheese Recipe is a creamy, stovetop-style macaroni and cheese recipe made with elbow pasta and a smooth cheddar-based cheese sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main / Side
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Elbow macaroni Cook until al dente
  • 2 tbsp Butter Unsalted preferred
  • 2 tbsp All-purpose flour For thickening
  • 2 cups Whole milk Warmed slightly
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Adds richness
  • 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese Freshly grated
  • ½ cup Mozzarella cheese For extra stretch
  • ½ tsp Garlic powder Subtle flavor boost
  • ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot For boiling pasta
  • 1 Colander To drain pasta
  • 1 Saucepan For cheese sauce
  • 1 Whisk Prevents lumps
  • 1 Wooden spoon For mixing

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Boil salted water in a large pot. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (usually 7–8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. Do not overcook — the pasta should still have slight bite.
Step 2: Make the Roux
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat:
  2. Melt butter
  3. Add flour
  4. Whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes
  5. It should look smooth and slightly golden. This step prevents raw flour taste.
Step 3: Add Milk and Cream
  1. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Then add cream.
  2. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning
  1. Lower the heat.
  2. Add:
  3. Cheddar
  4. Mozzarella
  5. Garlic powder
  6. Salt
  7. Pepper
  8. Stir until completely melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
  1. Add cooked macaroni to the sauce. Stir gently until every piece is coated.
  2. If the sauce feels too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons warm milk.
  3. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.