Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe

This Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe is a creamy stovetop-style macaroni and cheese recipe made with tender elbow pasta and a rich cheddar-based cheese sauce.

It’s not baked.It’s not dry.It’s smooth, buttery, and perfectly cheesy — exactly how an easy mac and cheese recipe should be.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4

Course: Main / Side

Cuisine: American

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

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

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

Method

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.