Olive Garden Mac and Cheese Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy mac and cheese—and when it comes to restaurant-style indulgence, the Olive Garden Mac and Cheese recipe takes things to a whole new level. With its rich, velvety cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a fan favorite for good reason. What makes this recipe extra special is that it’s not only incredibly easy to make at home, but it’s also kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and naturally vegetarian. Whether you’re craving comfort food on a rainy day or planning a cozy family dinner, this homemade Olive Garden-style mac and cheese hits the spot every time.

I first recreated this dish after tasting it at Olive Garden on a family trip—and it instantly became a staple in our home. Over the years, I’ve perfected the copycat version with just the right blend of cheeses to mirror the restaurant’s creamy goodness. Now, it’s my go-to recipe when I need a warm, cheesy pick-me-up.

Ready to bring a taste of Olive Garden into your kitchen? Let’s dive into the best Olive Garden mac and cheese recipe you’ll ever make!

What Makes Olive Garden Mac and Cheese So Special?

Unlike your average mac and cheese, Olive Garden’s version stands out because of:

• Multiple cheeses: A rich blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan for complex flavor.
• Creamy béchamel base: The secret to its silky-smooth texture.
• Perfectly seasoned: With Italian herbs, garlic, and a hint of pepper.
• Baked or stovetop options: Can be served as-is or baked for a golden crust.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Family-Friendly – Loved by both kids and adults.
• Budget-Friendly – Cheaper than dining out!
• Customizable – Add bacon, veggies, or extra cheese.
• Restaurant Quality – Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned.

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Medium saucepan for cheese sauce
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander
• Baking dish (if baking)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: breadcrumbs or extra cheese for topping

How to Make Olive Garden Mac and Cheese Recipe

Here the step by step guide how to make this recipe.

Step 1: Cook the Elbow Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually about 7–8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside. Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to soften when mixed with the hot cheese sauce.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to fully melt and start to bubble slightly—this will form the base for your roux, which thickens the cheese sauce.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the melted butter. Continuously whisk for about 1–2 minutes. This step is crucial to cook out the raw flour taste and create a smooth thickening base. The roux should take on a pale golden color.

Step 4: Add Milk and Cream

Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to stir as the mixture heats up and begins to thicken. This should take about 4–5 minutes. The consistency should be smooth and slightly creamy.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and ½ cup of grated parmesan. Stir continuously until all the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is velvety smooth. This blend mimics Olive Garden’s signature flavor.

Step 6: Season the Sauce

Enhance the flavor by adding ½ teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir to combine. The seasoning gives the cheese sauce that delicious Italian-inspired depth.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked and drained macaroni directly into the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy, cheesy mixture. At this stage, your mac and cheese is ready to serve as a stovetop version.

Step 8: Transfer to a Baking Dish (Optional)

If you prefer a baked mac and cheese, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle with breadcrumbs or extra shredded cheese for a golden, crispy topping.

Step 9: Bake Until Bubbly

Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly browned. This adds a delicious crunchy texture on top while keeping the inside creamy.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra parmesan for an added touch of flavor and color. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Olive Garden-style mac and cheese!

Tips for Making Olive Garden Mac and Cheese Recipe

• Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta al dente is best!
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for a deeper flavor profile.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a bit of cream cheese.
• Want a spicy kick? Add crushed red pepper flakes.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Avoid freezing, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.

Serving Tips

• Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread for a full Olive Garden-style meal.
• Garnish with extra parmesan or a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet touch.
• Pair with grilled chicken or roasted veggies for added protein.

For a complete indulgent meal, pair this creamy Olive Garden Mac and Cheese with the fruity freshness of our refreshing Outback Blackberry Sangria Recipe—a match made in comfort food heaven!

Conclusion!

Recreating the Olive Garden Mac and Cheese Recipe at home is easier than you might think and far more delicious than any boxed version. Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food that satisfies both your taste buds and your love for restaurant-quality dishes. Whether served on a weeknight or at a special gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, shells, rotini, or cavatappi work well too.

2. Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour substitute.

3. How do I make it more creamy?
Add a spoonful of cream cheese or increase the heavy cream.

4. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, grilled chicken, bacon, or sausage make great additions.

5. Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.

Olive Garden Mac and Cheese Recipe

This recipe is a delicious recreation of Olive Garden’s famously creamy mac and cheese. It combines tender elbow macaroni with a luscious, multi-cheese sauce made from mozzarella, parmesan, and cheddar, seasoned to perfection.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 19 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Medium saucepan for cheese sauce
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander
• Baking dish (if baking)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: breadcrumbs or extra cheese for topping

Notes

This Olive Garden Mac and Cheese Recipe is your ticket to a restaurant-style experience without ever leaving your kitchen. Inspired by the creamy pasta dishes served at Olive Garden, this version uses a three-cheese blend—cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan—to create a rich, luxurious sauce that clings beautifully to elbow macaroni. Unlike many boxed or one-note recipes, this version includes a béchamel base and Italian seasonings that bring depth and authenticity to each bite.