Craving that creamy, cheesy, unforgettable Red Robin Mac and Cheese? Forget the restaurant wait and the hefty price tag! This copycat recipe brings the deliciousness right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, using simple ingredients you likely already have. Get ready for a comforting, cheesy explosion that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious, homemade cooking, offering a healthy twist on a classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a deeper flavor)
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar is best)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, but adds amazing flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This is a crucial step for achieving the perfect texture in your mac and cheese.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (this is your roux). Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble.
Step 3: Season and Add Cheese
Stir in the salt, pepper, and paprika. Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gruyere (if using), and Parmesan cheeses, one cup at a time, stirring until each type is melted and fully incorporated before adding the next. This ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish (optional: for a bubbly, browned top, broil for 2-3 minutes). Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese:
- Use high-quality cheese: The flavor of your mac and cheese heavily relies on the cheese you use. Don't skimp!
- Don't overcook the pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta will continue to cook in the cheese sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Low and slow: Keep the heat low when making the cheese sauce to prevent burning. Patience is key here!
- Freshly grated cheese melts best: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
Variations:
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a kick.
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Crumble cooked bacon and stir it into the mac and cheese before serving.
- Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Add roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots for a healthier twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific cheeses and ingredients used. Use a nutrition calculator for a precise calculation. Generally, you can expect a serving to be moderately high in calories, fat, and sodium but also a good source of protein and calcium.
This Red Robin Mac and Cheese recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!