Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe

Experience the rich, velvety taste of Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese in your own kitchen. This easy copycat Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese recipe delivers the perfect balance of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and a golden, bubbly finish — just like the restaurant favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime comfort calls.

• Cuisine: American comfort food
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 (side dish)
• Method: Stovetop (optional baked finish)

Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese is more than a side dish — it’s a signature comfort food. Unlike boxed versions, this Texas Roadhouse macaroni and cheese recipe uses:

• A homemade roux of butter and flour for a silky structure
• A blend of cheddar and mozzarella for sharpness and stretch
• Carefully balanced seasoning for creamy, rich flavor

The result? A copycat Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese recipe that’s indulgent, comforting, and easy enough for home cooks of any skill level.

After testing multiple ratios of milk, cheese, and roux, this version strikes the ideal balance between:

• Creaminess
• Cheese flavor
• Proper sauce thickness
• Salt control

Making it from scratch lets you control sodium levels, customize the sharpness, and avoid preservatives found in packaged mixes.

Optional for a subtle kick	Unit	Ingredient Name	Notes / Substitutions
8	ounces	Elbow macaroni	Any short pasta works, like shells
2	cups	Shredded cheddar cheese	Use mild or sharp; substitute with gouda for variety
1	cup	Shredded mozzarella cheese	Adds stretchiness; Monterey Jack as sub
2	cups	Whole milk	For creaminess; use 2% if lighter
2	tablespoons	Butter	Unsalted preferred
2	tablespoons	All-purpose flour	For thickening the sauce
1/2	teaspoon	Salt	Adjust to taste
1/4	teaspoon	Black pepper	Freshly ground for best flavor
1/4	teaspoon	Garlic powder	Optional for subtle kick
1/4	teaspoon	Mustard powder	Optional for a subtle kick

Amount	Name	Notes
1	Large pot	For boiling pasta
1	Medium saucepan	For making the cheese sauce
1	Whisk	Essential for smooth sauce
1	Wooden spoon	For stirring pasta
1	Colander	To drain the cooked macaroni
1	Baking dish (optional)	If baking for a crispy top

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente (8 minutes). Drain but do not rinse — pasta starch helps the sauce cling.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour for 1–2 minutes until smooth and lightly golden. This ensures a lump-free, rich base for the cheese sauce.

Step 3: Build the Cheese Sauce

Gradually whisk in milk, simmer for 3–4 minutes. Reduce the heat and add cheeses slowly. Stir until fully melted and smooth, then season with salt, pepper, garlic, and mustard powder.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Mix pasta into the sauce until coated. Optional: transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with the reserved cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden, bubbly finish.

Pro Tips:

• Medium heat prevents cheese separation
• Let the mac and cheese rest 2–3 minutes before serving
• Reheat gently with milk to restore creaminess

• Too thick? Add warm milk 1 tablespoon at a time.
• Too thin? Simmer gently for 1–2 more minutes.
• Extra smooth? Blend the sauce before adding the pasta.
• Extra creamy? Replace ½ cup milk with heavy cream.

• Use medium heat when melting cheese
• Add salt gradually—cheese already contains sodium
• Let the dish rest 2–3 minutes before serving
• Reheat gently with added milk to restore creaminess

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne
• Smoky Version: Mix in smoked cheddar
• Garlic Boost: Sauté fresh garlic in butter first
• Loaded Version: Add crispy bacon, grilled chicken, or pulled pork

• Pair with BBQ ribs or grilled chicken for the ultimate comfort meal
• Serve alongside a fresh garden salad to balance richness
• Add grilled vegetables for a wholesome twist
• Serve on its own — this mac and cheese is a star on any table

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the oven or microwave with 1–2 tbsp milk to restore creaminess
• Freezing not recommended (cheese may separate)

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Sodium: Varies by cheese used

This recipe provides:

• Calcium from milk and cheese
• Protein for satiety
• B vitamins from dairy
• Balanced energy from carbohydrates

While indulgent, it uses real ingredients and no artificial preservatives, making it a better alternative to boxed mac and cheese.

This Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese recipe delivers creamy, cheesy comfort in just 30 minutes. Perfect as a loaded side dish or with added protein, it rivals the restaurant version. Whether you’re serving it for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or special occasions, it brings the same indulgent flavor into your kitchen — without any shortcuts.