Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe

In our kitty party, I heard my friends chatting about how much they love the Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe. They said it’s not just a side, it’s the one thing you remember long after finishing the steak.

That got me curious. So this week, I finally went there, ordered their ribeye steak with mac and cheese, and oh, that first bite hit different — creamy, rich, and buttery in all the right ways.

It tasted like comfort and warmth in a bowl. The next morning, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. So I opened my pantry, found a box of Kraft mac and cheese, and decided to bring that flavor home.

Just a little butter, milk, and that cheese mix, and there it was — the same creamy taste that made me smile.

If you love simple food that feels special like my Fancier mac and cheese, you should really try making this one tonight.

What Types of Macaroni Does Texas Roadhouse Use in Their Mac and Cheese?

Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese uses elbow macaroni so you can use the Kraft mac and cheese. It’s the classic curved pasta that holds sauce perfectly.

This shape helps the cheese coat every bite evenly, giving you that creamy texture every time. The pasta cooks soft but stays a bit firm, just how I like it. Many places use fancy noodles, but elbow macaroni keeps it simple and tasty.

When cooked right, it makes every spoonful smooth, rich, and comforting — just like the one you get at the restaurant.

Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese Ingredients

• 1 pack (7.25 oz) Kraft mac and cheese – This is the main base that gives that smooth, cheesy flavor just like Texas Roadhouse. It cooks fast and holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
• 4 tablespoons butter – Butter brings that deep, rich flavor and helps the cheese melt evenly. It makes every bite soft, creamy, and full of that comforting buttery taste.
• 1/4 cup milk – Milk smooths out the sauce and keeps the texture creamy, never dry. It blends everything together so the cheese coats each piece of pasta just right.
• Kraft cheese mix (from the pack) – The key ingredient that gives this recipe its signature flavor. It’s what turns simple pasta into that bold, creamy Texas Roadhouse-style mac.

How To Make Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Boil the Water

Pour 6 cups of water into a medium pot. Place it on high heat and let it boil. When you start seeing bubbles, it’s ready for the macaroni. I always add the pasta when the water is bubbling well, so it cooks evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Now add your pack of Kraft macaroni into the boiling water. Stir it a little so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom. Let it cook for 7 to 8 minutes or until the macaroni turns soft but not mushy. I taste one piece to make sure it’s tender enough.

Step 3: Drain and Set Aside

Once it’s cooked, remove it from the heat. Pour it through a strainer and drain all the water. I like to give it a quick shake so no extra water stays. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the cheese mix.

Step 4: Mix Butter and Cheese

Put the pot back on the stove. Add the cooked macaroni into it again. Drop in 4 tablespoons of butter. Pour in 1/4 cup of milk. Then sprinkle the Kraft cheese mix over it.

Keep stirring everything together on medium heat until the butter melts completely. You’ll see the sauce turn creamy and thick. Make sure all the pasta is coated well.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Turn off the heat. Your Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese recipe is now ready. I usually serve it hot because that’s when the cheese tastes best. The sauce stays creamy, and every bite feels rich and soft.

That’s it. In less than 15 minutes, you’ll have that same restaurant-style creamy macaroni ready to enjoy.

Special Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese

• Don’t overcook the pasta. It should stay soft but still hold shape.
• Use real butter, not margarine. It gives that rich Texas Roadhouse taste.
• Mix while it’s hot, so cheese melts smooth.
• Add a pinch of black pepper if you like a little spice.
• Want it creamier? Add a bit more milk slowly while stirring.
• Don’t rinse pasta in cold water — it removes the starch that helps cheese stick.
• Serve right away for best taste and texture.

What to Serve with Texas Roadhouse Mac and Cheese

You can serve this mac and cheese with any Texas Roadhouse steaks you made at home. or try these dish:

Grilled Chicken – The smoky, charred flavor cuts through the creamy cheese. It feels hearty but still light, and the mix of textures just works every single time.

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken – Sweet, tangy, and a little smoky, this chicken fits perfectly with cheesy pasta. The pineapple glaze gives a tropical kick that makes the whole plate pop.

Honolulu Chicken – Juicy and saucy with a hint of soy and garlic. I love how the savory sauce soaks into each bite of mac and cheese, giving it a bold island twist.

Steak Bites – Tender and rich, they taste amazing next to creamy pasta. The beef flavor stands out but doesn’t overpower, just makes the meal feel more complete.

Mashed Potatoes – Soft, fluffy, and buttery mashed potato salad match the mac’s creamy texture. If you love comfort food, this combo will make you happy with every bite.

Coleslaw – Cool, crunchy, and light coleslaw. It refreshes your palate between bites and adds a nice snap beside all that cheesy goodness.

Drinks To Try

Classic Lemonade – The tangy, citrus flavor cuts through the richness of the cheese. It keeps things fresh and gives that clean finish after a heavy bite.

Martini – Pair with the Bar Louie lemon drop martini, it pairs surprisingly well with the creamy mac. It adds a grown-up touch that makes a simple dinner feel like a night out.

How to Store Leftover and Reheat

If you’ve got leftovers (which doesn’t happen often here), don’t worry.

1. Storing Leftovers – Let the mac and cheese cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It stays good for up to 3 days without losing flavor.
2. Reheating Tips – Add a splash of milk before warming to keep it creamy. Reheat slowly on the stove over low heat, stirring often. You can also use the microwave, covering and stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use other brands of mac and cheese instead of Kraft?

Yes, you can. But Kraft gives that classic creamy taste close to Texas Roadhouse. Other brands might be a bit thicker or saltier, so adjust butter and milk as needed.

Can I add extra cheese?

Of course! I often add a handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella. It makes the sauce thicker and richer. Just mix it while the pot is still warm.

What if my cheese sauce turns too thick?

No problem. Add a little more milk, one spoon at a time, and stir gently until it smooths out again.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, though fresh is better. If freezing, let it cool, then store it in a freezer-safe box for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly with milk.

What makes Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese so good?

It’s the mix of buttery, creamy sauce and simple elbow pasta. The flavor feels homely, smooth, and comforting — that’s what makes it so special.

So that’s my simple guide for you on how to make Texas Roadhouse mac and cheese copycat recipe. It’s one of those dishes that never lets you down.

You only need a few things, but the taste is rich like a big warm hug in a bowl.

I hope you try this at home soon and see how easy it is to make something this good.

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