Okay, picture this: it’s a Friday night, you’re craving something unbelievably comforting, and the thought of getting dressed to go out is… just… no. That’s when this Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe swoops in to save the day. It’s honestly, the closest thing to a hug in a bowl that I know how to make. If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy pasta dishes like, say, a Classic Baked macaroni and cheese, but you’re looking for something with a little extra *oomph*, this recipe is absolutely going to knock your socks off. I swear, once you try this, you might just ditch the boxed stuff forever (no judgment, we’ve all been there!). The secret? A blend of cheeses and a creamy sauce that’s just… chef’s kiss.

What is Outback Steakhouse?

Think of it as the grown-up, gourmet version of your childhood favorite. It’s essentially a super-charged macaroni and cheese with a sauce so rich and creamy, you’ll want to lick the bowl clean. Unlike some mac and cheese recipes that rely heavily on cheddar, this one uses a blend of cheeses for a more complex and satisfying flavor. The name, of course, comes from the popular restaurant chain where this style of mac and cheese is a beloved side dish. It’s not just about boiling pasta and dumping cheese sauce, though. We’re talking about a decadent sauce base, perfectly cooked pasta, and a flavor profile that will have you wondering why you haven’t been making this all along! It’s the Perfect Comfort Food for a chilly evening, a potluck dish that’s sure to impress, or just a weeknight treat when you need something extra special.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Okay, so where do I even begin? There are so many reasons to adore this Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese recipe. First and foremost, the *flavor*. It’s a symphony of cheesy goodness, thanks to the blend of different cheeses that create a depth of flavor that’s just unmatched. We’re not talking just cheddar here, people, we’re elevating mac and cheese to a whole new level! Then there’s the *simplicity*. Yes, it tastes incredibly gourmet, but trust me, it’s surprisingly easy to make. The sauce comes together quickly, the pasta cooks in a flash, and before you know it, you’re diving into a bowl of creamy deliciousness. I honestly think anyone could make this, even if you don’t consider yourself a star chef. The ingredients are also pretty *cost-effective*. I mean, you probably have most of them in your fridge already! It’s a fantastic way to make a budget-friendly meal feel incredibly luxurious. And the *versatility*? Oh, the possibilities! You can add cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or even roasted vegetables to customize it to your liking. What I love most is that it’s always a hit with my family. My kids ask for this specifically, and even my picky eater nephew devours it without complaint! Compared to other mac and cheese recipes, this one stands out because of its luxurious texture and complex flavor – it’s simply unforgettable.

How do I make Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese?

Quick Overview

Making this dreamy mac and cheese is easier than you might think! You’ll start by cooking your favorite pasta, while simultaneously preparing the creamy cheese sauce on the stovetop. Once the pasta is cooked, you’ll simply combine it with the sauce, give it a good stir, and *voila*! The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The secret is the creamy sauce, which is made with a blend of cheeses that melt together beautifully. No complicated steps or fancy techniques required – just simple ingredients and a whole lot of cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

For the Mac & Cheese: How do you make it?

Pasta: 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite short pasta shape). I’m a sucker for shells, but elbows are classic!

Butter:1/4 cup (that’s half a stick!) Unsalted is best so you can control the saltiness.

All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup. This helps thicken the sauce perfectly.

Milk:Is it safe to use whole milk?

Heavy cream:What is the best way to add flavor to cheese?

Salt:Salt is key to bringing out the flavors in cheese.

Black pepper:What is the best way to grind a potato?

Garlic powder: 1/4 teaspoon. Just a touch to add some depth.

Onion powder: 1/4 teaspoon. Similar to garlic powder, this adds a subtle savory note.

Cheddar cheese: 2 cups, shredded. Sharp cheddar is my go-to, but medium cheddar works too.

What is Monterey Jack cheese?1 cup, shredded. This cheese melts like a dream and adds to the flavor.

Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated. Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. If you want it to be firm to the bite because it will continue to cook a bit in the cheese sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms. This is called a roux and it’s essential for thickening the sauce. Make sure it doesn’t burn! You want it to be a light golden color.

Step 3: Add the Milk and Cream

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes. This step requires a little patience, but it’s worth it for silky smooth sauce!

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Is this where you can customize the flavor to your liking? I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper to my recipe. It’s really good!

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Don’t rush this step! Low and slow is the key to a perfectly melted cheese sauce.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Serve immediately and enjoy! I like to garnish with Parmesan cheese and a dash of paprika.

What is the best way to serve it?

Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese is a star on its own, but it also plays well with others! What are some of my favorite ways to serve it?

As a Side Dish:What are the best ribs to serve with grilled steak (a nod to the Outback)? What are some of the best mac and cheese recipes?

As a Main Course:Add some protein to make it a complete meal. What are some good side dishes to serve with bacon, shredded chicken, or even shrimp? Is it healthy to toss in some roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli?

For a Potluck:What are some good ways to serve mac and cheese at potlucks? Just be prepared to share the recipe!

My family loves it best with a simple side salad – the crisp lettuce and tangy vinaigrette cut through the richness of the mac and cheese beautifully. But honestly, sometimes we just eat it straight from the bowl! No judgment here!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

What are some tricks to take mac and cheese from good to amazing? What are some of the Best Tips for a beginner?

Don’t overcook Pasta!How do you make al dente pasta?

Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese melts much better and has a better flavor.

Low and Slow: When melting the cheese, keep the heat low and stir constantly. This will prevent the cheese from burning or becoming grainy.

Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra salt, pepper, or garlic powder to suit your taste.

Get Creative with the Cheese: While the recipe calls for cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan, you can experiment with other cheeses. Gruyere, Fontina, or even a little bit of smoked Gouda would be delicious additions.

I always use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the sauce from scorching. And one time, I accidentally used skim milk instead of whole milk, and the sauce was definitely not as creamy! Lesson learned: use whole milk or heavy cream for the best results!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To prevent it from drying out, you can add a splash of milk or cream before storing.

Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the mac and cheese and microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to overheat it, as the cheese can become grainy.

I don’t recommend freezing this mac and cheese, as the texture can change when thawed. But if you must freeze it, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl, a comforting classic that always hits the spot. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this recipe is sure to impress. The creamy, cheesy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta are simply irresistible. And the best part? It’s so easy to make! If you’re a fan of comfort food, you absolutely need to give this recipe a try. And if you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other mac and cheese variations, like my bacon cheddar mac and cheese or my spicy jalapeno mac and cheese. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below and share your own variations. I love hearing from you!