Craving that unbelievably creamy, cheesy, and decadent mac & cheese you get at the Yard House? Stop dreaming and start cooking! This copycat recipe brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen, proving that homemade comfort food can be just as satisfying – if not more so! It's easier than you think to make this delicious dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is packed with flavor and guaranteed to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup 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 touch of heat)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, for bread crumbs
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta: Boil the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Reduce heat to low and stir in the salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Add the cheese: Stir in the cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and completely incorporated. The sauce should be creamy and smooth. Stir in the cooked macaroni until evenly coated.
Bake to perfection: Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Combine the bread crumbs and melted butter; sprinkle evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Serve and enjoy: Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your homemade Yard House-style mac & cheese!
Tips for the Best Mac & Cheese:
- Use high-quality cheese: The better the cheese, the better the mac and cheese! A blend of cheeses provides a more complex and flavorful result.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to preventing mushy mac and cheese.
- Stir frequently: Stirring the cheese sauce frequently prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Don't rush the baking: Baking allows the top to get golden brown and crispy, while the inside remains creamy and hot.
Variations:
- Spicy Mac & Cheese: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick.
- Bacon Mac & Cheese: Crumble cooked bacon and add it to the cheese sauce before baking.
- Vegetable Mac & Cheese: Stir in cooked broccoli, cauliflower, or other vegetables before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This easy mac and cheese recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a great option for a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting weekend lunch, or a crowd-pleasing dish for a party. The creamy texture and rich flavor will have everyone asking for seconds! Give it a try and let us know what you think!