Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe

The first time I tried the famous LongHorn Steakhouse mac and cheese, I immediately understood why people rave about it. The creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and crispy baked topping made it feel like the ultimate comfort-food side dish, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. This easy copycat LongHorn Steakhouse mac and cheese recipe keeps all that rich, cheesy flavor but at home using everyday ingredients.

One thing I’ve learned after making this recipe multiple times is that freshly shredded cheese melts much more smoothly and helps create that creamy restaurant-style texture everyone loves. Slightly undercooking the pasta also helps prevent the mac and cheese from becoming mushy after baking. We love serving it alongside easy dinners like BBQ chicken breasts in the air fryer for a complete meal.

Why The Recipe Works💭

Creamy, rich cheese sauce: Freshly shredded cheese melts smoothly into the sauce for that signature steakhouse-style texture without becoming grainy.

Perfect pasta texture: Slightly undercooking the pasta before baking helps it stay tender instead of mushy once combined with the hot cheese sauce.

Comfort-food flavor fast: Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy copycat recipe makes it so that you can have a “fancy” dinner on the table quickly.

Items and Substitutions

• Pasta: Traditionally, Longhorn Steakhouse mac and cheese uses cavatappi noodles. However, anything you have on hand can work.
• Cheese: You need four kinds of cheese (Gruyere, Gouda, Cheddar, and Parmesan) for the baked steakhouse mac and cheese, and all have their place. So, if possible, use all that’s listed to replicate the flavor. Use extra to make this smoked salmon frittata with gruyere cheese.
• Bacon: Applewood-smoked bacon is what’s used originally and will give the most flavor. Cook your bacon a bit crispy for the best kind of bite.
• Gluten-free: To make this steakhouse mac and cheese recipe gluten-friendly, you need to use gluten-free noodles (quinoa-based ones hold up best!), gluten-free flour, and a gluten-free breadcrumb. It won’t be identical, but it will be close.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Flavors To Try

This creamy baked cheddar mac and cheese is a classic, but there are a few ways you can adapt it for your family. Below are some of the ones we’ve tried:

1. Spice It Up: Stir in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to add some heat.
2. Mix in Veggies: Try adding cooked broccoli, spinach, or caramelized onions for a nutritious boost.
3. Swap the Bacon: Use pancetta, ham, or a sprinkle of smoked sausage for a different take on smoky flavors.
4. Top with Extra Seasonings: Sprinkle on herbs like thyme, chives, or parsley, or add a drizzle of truffle oil for an extra layer of flavor.

How To Make Longhorn Copycat Mac and Cheese

Prep work: Cook the pasta according to directions, but only until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside. Preheat the oven and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of butter.

Step 1: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat, and then add the flour. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to make a roux.

Step 2: Slowly whisk in the milk and cook until the sauce thickens to a pancake batter consistency, then remove from the heat and stir in the cheeses and spices until smooth and melted.

Step 3: Fold pasta into cheese sauce and toss it to coat. Then, spread the pasta and cheese mixture into the buttered baking dish.

Step 4: Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Mix melted butter into breadcrumbs.

Step 5: Top the pasta and cheese with buttered breadcrumbs.

Step 6: Add bacon pieces and bake 20 minutes until breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Storing Leftovers

Fridge: To store homemade LongHorn mac and cheese, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating in the microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.

Reheating in the oven: Preheat to 350°F, transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to keep it from drying out, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to keep the sauce creamy.

Serving Suggestions

Just like my homemade Longhorn Steakhouse pot pie recipe, this mac and cheese is a classic. Since it’s made so easily, below are a few ways we pair it to enjoy it regularly:

• Serve this copycat LongHorn Steakhouse mac and cheese alongside air fryer steak tips, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables for an easy steakhouse-style dinner at home.
• Air fryer garlic butter green beans, asparagus, or a crisp salad help balance the rich, creamy cheese sauce.
• For a Southern-inspired comfort meal, pair the mac and cheese with barbecue ribs, pulled pork, or crispy fried chicken.

Longhorn Macaroni and Cheese FAQs

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Can I use different cheeses in the recipe?

Yes, you can substitute or add cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or Monterey Jack to customize the flavor, but using a blend of Gruyere, Gouda, Cheddar, and Parmesan best mimics the Longhorn original.

How can I make the mac and cheese creamier?

For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of heavy cream or stir in a bit of cream cheese to the sauce, and avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the dish.

Can I freeze the steakhouse mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze steakhouse mac and cheese for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely first, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe dish. For the creamiest texture when reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge and stir in a splash of milk before warming it back up.

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If you tried this Creamy Copycat Longhorn Mac and Cheese Recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it goes!