Outback Steakhouse Macaroni and Cheese (Mac-A-Roo & Cheese)
Description
Indulge in the creamy, comforting goodness of Outback Steakhouse’s signature Macaroni and Cheese, affectionately known as Mac-A-Roo & Cheese. This delightful dish combines the perfect al dente rigatoni pasta with a luscious cheese sauce that boasts rich flavors, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. Enjoy this recipe from lovewithrecipes.com that captures the essence of this restaurant favorite in your very own kitchen.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Rigatoni pasta |
| 3 | Tablespoons butter |
| 2 | Tablespoons all-purpose flour |
| 1 1/2 | Cups milk |
| 1/4 | Teaspoon salt |
| 1/8 | Teaspoon paprika |
| 1/2 | Pound processed cheese, cubed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 664.5 |
| Total Fat | 29.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 17.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 144 mg |
| Sodium | 1193.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 72.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 5.9 g |
| Protein | 26.8 g |
Instructions
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Begin by preparing the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring you cook it until it reaches an ideal al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside for later use.
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In a large saucepan, place over medium heat, melt the butter until it is completely liquid and begins to bubble gently, creating a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen.
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Gradually add the flour to the melted butter, whisking continuously to create a smooth mixture. This will form the base for your cheese sauce, so it’s important to keep stirring to prevent any lumps from forming.
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As you stir, the flour mixture will start to thicken, resembling a paste. Continue cooking for about one minute to eliminate the raw flour taste, ensuring that the mixture is well combined.
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Slowly pour in the milk while whisking vigorously, ensuring the flour mixture incorporates seamlessly. You should see the sauce beginning to thicken as the milk warms up.
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Once the sauce is thickened, add in the salt, paprika, and the cubed processed cheese. Continue to stir constantly, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce and create a smooth, creamy consistency. The goal is to have a cheese sauce that resembles an extra-thick cream; if you find the mixture is too thick, feel free to add a splash more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
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Finally, pour the drained rigatoni pasta into the cheese sauce, using a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the pasta into the sauce until every piece is generously coated in the velvety cheese mixture.
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Once thoroughly mixed, your Outback Steakhouse Macaroni and Cheese is ready to be served. You can transfer it to a serving dish or individual bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of extra paprika or cheese if desired.
This delectable recipe serves four and takes just 20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the indulgence of this creamy, cheesy delight straight from your own kitchen!
