Creamy Steakhouse Mac and Cheese : A Decadent Copycat Recipe

Name: Creamy Steakhouse Mac and Cheese : A Decadent Copycat Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni (or cavatappi); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups whole milk (warmed); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping); 2 tablespoons butter (for topping, optional)

September 23, 2025

BySophia

Dinner

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Servings

If you’ve ever dined at a steakhouse, you know the sides can be just as memorable as the main course. This Steakhouse Mac and Cheese captures all that indulgent, creamy, cheesy flavor you crave, right at home. With its silky sauce, tender pasta, and a rich blend of cheeses, this dish is perfect for weeknight comfort meals or when you want to impress guests with a steakhouse food classic.

This recipe is also a great answer for anyone who’s ever wondered how to make Outback Mac and Cheese at home. Whether you call it copycat Outback Mac and Cheese, Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese recipe, or simply the ultimate creamy pasta bake, it’s a dish worth mastering.

Why You’ll Love Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

There’s something irresistible about restaurant-style mac and cheese — it’s velvety, rich, and indulgent without being complicated. This version delivers all the flavor of the original Outback Steakhouse side while staying budget-friendly and easy to prepare in your own kitchen.

You’ll love this recipe because:

It uses simple pantry staples.
It’s customizable with different cheese blends.
It pairs beautifully with steak, chicken, or seafood.
It’s as comforting as it is impressive.

If you’re building a restaurant-style dinner, pair this mac with Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs or check out more hearty ideas in our Dinner category.

Who This Recipe Is For

This recipe is perfect if you’re:

A mac and cheese lover craving a restaurant-style version.
Curious about Outback Mac and Cheese ingredients and want to recreate it at home.
Searching for comfort food that doubles as a side or a main.
Looking for steakhouse mac and cheese to serve alongside grilled meats.
Hunting for copycat recipes to impress family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb elbow macaroni (or cavatappi for extra texture)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk (warmed)
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons butter (for topping, optional)

These simple ingredients mimic the luxurious texture of the Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese recipe while allowing flexibility.

Ingredient Notes and Variations

Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but cavatappi or shells hold more sauce.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is key for flavor. Mix in Gruyère or fontina for gourmet flair.
Cream: Heavy cream makes it extra indulgent, but half-and-half can be substituted.
Breadcrumbs: For a baked version, top with buttery panko and broil until golden.
Seasonings: Paprika adds warmth; cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick.

For another indulgent side, check out our Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Large pot for pasta
Medium saucepan for cheese sauce
Whisk
Baking dish (if baking with topping)
Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Preparation: How to Make Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make a roux
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Add milk and cream
Gradually whisk in warmed milk and cream. Continue whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Stir in cheese
Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan. Stir until melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Combine pasta and sauce
Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta, stirring gently to coat every piece.

Step 6: Optional bake
Transfer to a baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.

Pro Tips for the Best Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Warm the milk before adding it to the roux to prevent lumps.
Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.
Don’t overcook pasta — it continues cooking in the sauce.
Add a splash of hot sauce for a hidden flavor boost.
For ultimate creaminess, stir sauce into pasta just before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using pre-shredded cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Skipping the roux: This step thickens the sauce and creates the velvety texture.
Overbaking: The sauce can dry out if baked too long.
Not seasoning enough: Cheese is rich, so seasoning is essential for balance.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside grilled steak for a full steakhouse food experience.
Pair with Garlic Butter Shrimp for surf and turf.
Enjoy with roasted veggies like Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini.
Make it the main course with a fresh green salad.

Creative Presentation Ideas

Serve in mini cast-iron skillets for a rustic steakhouse vibe.
Garnish with parsley or chives for color contrast.
Sprinkle with extra Parmesan at the table.
Present as individual baked ramekins for dinner parties.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

Add crispy chicken pieces for a protein-packed version.
Stir in roasted broccoli or cauliflower for veggies.
Mix in bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
Top with jalapeños or hot sauce for spice lovers.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen sauce.
Freeze: Not ideal, as the sauce can separate, but small portions can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Make-Ahead Tips

Cook pasta and sauce separately, then combine before serving.
Assemble mac and cheese in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Grate cheese ahead of time and store in bags.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cheeses are in Outback Mac and Cheese?
Typically a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan for creamy flavor.

Can I make it without baking?
Yes — stovetop mac and cheese is just as delicious.

Can I lighten it up?
Use 2% milk instead of whole and reduce heavy cream.

Is this the same as Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese recipe?
It’s a copycat version designed to mimic that creamy, indulgent flavor.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish if baking.

Final Thoughts: Why Steakhouse Mac and Cheese Is a Keeper

This steakhouse mac and cheese recipe delivers the rich, creamy indulgence of your favorite restaurant side right at home. It’s versatile, crowd-pleasing, and works just as well for casual dinners as it does for special occasions. Whether you’re recreating the Outback Mac and Cheese recipe or simply want the creamiest pasta dish possible, this recipe is a keeper.

Did you love this steakhouse mac and cheese recipe? Share it with friends and family who crave indulgent comfort food, and subscribe to the blog for more restaurant-style recipes, quick weeknight dinners, and comforting classics.

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