Are you craving that unbelievably creamy, decadent macaroni and cheese you remember from Ruth's Chris Steak House? The kind that melts in your mouth and leaves you wanting more? Well, you're in luck! This copycat recipe brings all the luxurious goodness of that famous side dish right to your kitchen. Forget complicated techniques; this easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality mac and cheese with minimal fuss. It's the perfect comfort food, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion gathering. Let's get started on this delicious journey!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Creamy Goodness
This recipe uses simple, high-quality ingredients to achieve maximum flavor. Gather the following:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Mac & Cheese Perfection
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked, bubbly finish.
Cook the pasta: Boil the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Remember, slightly undercooked pasta is best as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Make the cheese sauce: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. This is crucial for a creamy sauce – take your time!
Season and simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Stir in salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Cheese it up: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. The residual heat from the sauce will melt the cheese beautifully.
Combine and bake: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Bake to golden perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Rest and serve: Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly and makes for easier serving.
Tips and Variations: Elevate Your Mac & Cheese Game
- Freshly grated cheese is key: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta ensures it doesn't become mushy in the oven.
- Use high-quality cheese: The flavor of your mac and cheese will directly reflect the quality of your cheese.
- Add some flair: For an extra touch, top with breadcrumbs or panko before baking for added texture and crispiness.
- Spice it up: Experiment with different cheeses or add a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder for unique flavor profiles.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This is a rough estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: Approximately 30-35g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
This Ruth's Chris-inspired mac and cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this simple yet delicious homemade meal, a perfect example of easy recipes transforming into healthy meals and delicious dishes. It's a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Happy cooking!