Ruth’s Chris Steak House is renowned for its top-quality steaks, but their macaroni and cheese is a close second in terms of popularity. This comforting dish has been a staple on their menu for years, and its rich, creamy flavor has captured the hearts of many. If you’re looking to recreate this iconic recipe at home, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Ruth’s Chris regular mac and cheese, exploring its history, ingredients, and cooking techniques.
A Brief History of Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese
Ruth’s Chris Steak House was founded in 1965 by Ruth Fertel in New Orleans, Louisiana. The restaurant quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional steaks, but it was the macaroni and cheese that became a surprise hit. The dish was originally created by Ruth Fertel herself, who wanted to offer a comforting, indulgent side dish that would complement her steaks. Over the years, the recipe has remained largely unchanged, with a few tweaks here and there to perfect the flavor.
The Secret to Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese
So, what makes Ruth’s Chris mac and cheese so special? The answer lies in the combination of high-quality ingredients and a unique cooking technique. Here are a few key factors that contribute to the dish’s success:
- High-quality cheese: Ruth’s Chris uses a blend of cheddar, parmesan, and romano cheese, which provides a rich, tangy flavor.
- Creamy bechamel sauce: The mac and cheese is made with a classic bechamel sauce, which is enriched with butter, flour, and milk.
- Al dente pasta: The pasta is cooked until it’s still slightly firm in the center, which helps it hold onto the cheese sauce.
- Caramelized crust: The mac and cheese is topped with a crispy, caramelized crust that adds texture and flavor.
The Ruth’s Chris Regular Mac and Cheese Recipe
Now that we’ve explored the history and secrets behind Ruth’s Chris mac and cheese, it’s time to dive into the recipe itself. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this creamy, dreamy dish at home:
Ingredients
- 1 pound macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated romano cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the macaroni until it’s al dente, then drain and set aside.
Making the Bechamel Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk until it forms a smooth paste.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is lightly golden.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, stirring occasionally.
Assembling the Mac and Cheese
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, bechamel sauce, and grated cheese.
- Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs.
- Drizzle with melted butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Baking the Mac and Cheese
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the mac and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
Tips and Variations
While the Ruth’s Chris regular mac and cheese recipe is perfect just the way it is, there are a few ways you can customize it to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:
- Add some spice: If you like a little heat in your mac and cheese, try adding some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the bechamel sauce.
- Get creative with the cheese: While the classic blend of cheddar, parmesan, and romano is delicious, you can also experiment with other cheeses like gouda, fontina, or goat cheese.
- Add some texture: Consider adding some cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables to the mac and cheese for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Ruth’s Chris regular mac and cheese is a comforting, indulgent dish that’s sure to become a staple in your household. With its rich, creamy bechamel sauce and crispy, caramelized crust, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a mac and cheese aficionado or just looking for a new recipe to try, this dish is sure to delight. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the creamy, dreamy delight of Ruth’s Chris mac and cheese for yourself.
| Servings | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-6 | 20 minutes | 25 minutes | 45 minutes |
Note: Nutrition information is not provided as it may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
What is the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe?
The Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe is a popular dish from the upscale steakhouse chain Ruth’s Chris Steak House. It is a creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese dish that has gained a cult following. The recipe features a blend of cheeses, including cheddar, parmesan, and romano, which gives it a rich and creamy flavor.
The recipe also includes a variety of ingredients such as pasta, butter, flour, and milk, which are combined to create a smooth and velvety sauce. The dish is then baked in the oven until golden brown and served hot. The Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe is a comforting and indulgent dish that is perfect for special occasions or as a treat.
What type of pasta is used in the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe?
The Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe uses cavatappi pasta, which is a type of corkscrew-shaped pasta. This type of pasta is ideal for mac and cheese because its shape allows the cheese sauce to coat it evenly. The cavatappi pasta also holds onto the cheese sauce well, making each bite creamy and flavorful.
If you can’t find cavatappi pasta, you can substitute it with other types of pasta such as elbow macaroni or shells. However, keep in mind that the shape and texture of the pasta may affect the overall dish. Cavatappi pasta is a key component of the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe, so it’s worth seeking out if you want to make an authentic version.
What is the cheese blend used in the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe?
The Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe uses a blend of cheddar, parmesan, and romano cheese. The cheddar cheese provides a rich and creamy flavor, while the parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor. The romano cheese adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
The combination of these three cheeses creates a complex and balanced flavor profile that is characteristic of the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe. You can adjust the ratio of the cheeses to your taste, but the combination of cheddar, parmesan, and romano is essential to the dish.
Can I make the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe ahead of time. In fact, making it ahead of time can help the flavors to meld together and the cheese sauce to thicken. You can prepare the pasta and cheese sauce separately and then combine them just before baking.
To make the recipe ahead of time, prepare the pasta and cheese sauce as instructed, then refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to bake, combine the pasta and cheese sauce and transfer them to a baking dish. Top with additional cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake until golden brown.
Can I customize the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe?
Yes, you can customize the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe to suit your tastes. Some ideas for customization include adding cooked bacon or ham, using different types of cheese, or adding some spice with red pepper flakes.
You can also add some freshness to the dish by adding some chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives. Additionally, you can use different types of pasta or add some texture with some toasted breadcrumbs. The key is to experiment and find the combination that works best for you.
Is the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe is suitable for vegetarians. The recipe does not include any meat or animal by-products, making it a great option for vegetarians. However, if you’re a vegetarian who avoids animal rennet, you may want to check the ingredients of the cheese you use.
Some cheeses, such as parmesan and romano, may be made with animal rennet. However, there are many vegetarian alternatives available, so be sure to check the labels. Additionally, you can also use vegetarian-friendly cheese substitutes if you prefer.
Can I make the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make the Ruth’s Chris Mac and Cheese recipe in a slow cooker. In fact, making it in a slow cooker can be a great way to prepare the dish ahead of time. Simply prepare the pasta and cheese sauce as instructed, then transfer them to a slow cooker.
Cook the mac and cheese on low for 2-3 hours, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also add some additional cheese and breadcrumbs on top of the mac and cheese before serving. Making the recipe in a slow cooker can be a convenient and hands-off way to prepare this comforting dish.