Mac and cheese is a timeless comfort food that never goes out of style. Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese recipe takes this classic dish to a whole new level with its rich, creamy texture and perfectly balanced flavors. Known for his upscale steakhouse, Jeff Ruby has crafted a mac and cheese that’s indulgent yet approachable—making it a favorite for both special occasions and cozy nights in.
We love how this recipe blends sharp cheddar and creamy cheeses to create a luscious sauce that clings to every noodle. It’s simple enough to make at home but impressive enough to serve guests. Whether you’re a mac and cheese enthusiast or looking to try something new, Jeff Ruby’s version is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible.
Ingredients
To recreate Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese Recipe with its signature rich and creamy texture, selecting the right ingredients is crucial. Below we break down the essential components that bring this classic dish to life.
Cheese Selection
The heart of Ruby’s mac and cheese lies in its carefully chosen rich cheeses. We use a blend of sharp cheddar for boldness and creamy cheeses for smoothness.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups, shredded, for a tangy depth
- Gruyère Cheese – 1 cup, shredded, to add nutty richness
- Cream Cheese – 4 ounces, softened, to enhance creaminess and smooth texture
- Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup, grated, for a savory finish with a slight crunch when baked
These cheeses combine to create a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to each noodle, delivering a decadent bite every time.
Pasta
Pasta choice is essential for absorbing the sauce and providing the right texture:
- Elbow Macaroni – 1 pound (16 ounces)
We recommend traditional elbow macaroni for its tubular shape, which holds the cheese sauce well. Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente—firm but tender—to avoid mushiness in the final dish.
Additional Ingredients
Alongside cheese and pasta, these ingredients complete the Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese flavor profile and texture:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tablespoons | Melted |
| All-Purpose Flour | ¼ cup | For thickening the cheese sauce |
| Whole Milk | 3 cups | Warmed to blend smoothly |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup | Adds extra creaminess |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 teaspoon | For subtle tang |
| Garlic Powder | ½ teaspoon | Enhances savory depth |
| Salt | To taste | Balances flavors |
| Black Pepper | ½ teaspoon | Adds mild heat |
| Panko Breadcrumbs | 1 cup | Optional, for crispy topping |
| Fresh Parsley | 1 tablespoon | Chopped, for garnish |
This combination creates the luxurious velvety cheese sauce and balanced seasoning that define this upscale comfort food favorite.
Equipment Needed
To perfectly execute Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese recipe, having the right kitchen tools is essential. Each piece of equipment plays a specific role in crafting that velvety, rich cheese sauce and tender pasta base. Here’s what we need for flawless preparation:
- Large Pot: For boiling the elbow macaroni until al dente. Choose a pot large enough to allow pasta to cook evenly without sticking.
- Colander: To drain the cooked macaroni precisely at the right tenderness.
- Medium Saucepan: Used for melting butter and combining it with flour to create a roux, the foundation of the creamy cheese sauce.
- Whisk: Essential for stirring the roux and gradually incorporating milk and cream, ensuring a smooth texture without lumps.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: For mincing garlic or any fresh seasonings that may be added to enhance flavor.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is crucial for ingredients like milk, cream, mustard, and spices to maintain the delicate flavor balance.
- Mixing Bowl: Useful if we prepare toppings, such as mixing panko breadcrumbs with melted butter for that signature crispy topping.
- Ovenproof Baking Dish (Optional): Should we choose to bake the mac and cheese to get a golden crust, an oven-safe dish is necessary.
- Cheese Grater: For freshly grating sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses to maximize meltability and freshness.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boiling elbow macaroni | Use plenty of water |
| Colander | Draining pasta | Drain thoroughly but avoid drying |
| Medium Saucepan | Making cheese sauce roux | Non-stick preferred |
| Whisk | Blending sauce ingredients smoothly | Prevent lumps |
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Chopping any fresh ingredients | Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement | Accuracy affects texture and taste |
| Mixing Bowl | Combining toppings or mixing cheeses | Optional for breadcrumb toppings |
| Ovenproof Baking Dish | Baking mac and cheese for a crispy crust | Optional step for baked version |
| Cheese Grater | Freshly grating cheeses | Fresh grated cheese melts better |
Using this equipment lineup enables us to follow Jeff Ruby’s mac and cheese recipe with confidence, achieving the rich, creamy, and perfectly textured result that makes this dish stand out. Let’s gather these essentials to ensure smooth cooking from start to finish.
Prep Work
Before diving into the cooking, preparing each element carefully ensures our Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese turns out perfectly creamy and flavorful. Let’s focus on the foundation: the cheese sauce and the pasta.
Preparing the Cheese Sauce
To create the signature rich and velvety cheese sauce, follow these steps precisely:
- Mince the Garlic: Finely mince 1 clove of garlic using a sharp chef’s knife to release its aromatic flavor.
- Roux Base: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to form a smooth roux. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce.
- Add Dairy: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Maintain medium heat until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheese blend:
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar (grated)
- 1 cup Gruyère (grated)
- ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
- ⅓ cup Parmesan (grated)
Add cheese gradually, stirring until fully melted and silky smooth.
5. Seasoning: Enhance the sauce with 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Keep Warm: Set the sauce aside on low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture.
Cooking the Pasta
Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni holds the cheese sauce beautifully. Here’s how we prepare it:
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Pasta Type | 1 pound elbow macaroni |
| Water Quantity | 4 to 6 quarts salted water |
| Cooking Time | 7 to 8 minutes for al dente |
| Draining Method | Use a colander, shaking to remove excess water |
| Post-Cooking Handling | Rinse briefly under warm water if necessary to stop cooking |
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use roughly 1 tablespoon salt per 4 quarts water.
- Add the macaroni and cook uncovered for exactly 7-8 minutes, ensuring the pasta is al dente — firm but tender.
- Drain promptly in a colander. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy noodles which won’t hold the sauce well.
- Optional: Rinse under warm water briefly to halt cooking but drain well to avoid water diluting the sauce.
By meticulously preparing the sauce and perfectly cooking the pasta, our Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese comes together with a luxurious creamy texture and ideal bite, setting the stage for a memorable dish.
Directions
Let’s walk through the precise steps to craft Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese. Following these directions guarantees a rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced comfort dish.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- Mince garlic finely to release its aroma.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour steadily to form a smooth roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it turns golden without browning.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheese blend:
| Cheese Type | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp Cheddar | 2 cups shredded | Bold flavor |
| Gruyère | 1 cup shredded | Nutty richness |
| Cream Cheese | 4 ounces softened | Creamy smoothness |
| Parmesan | 1/2 cup grated | Savory, umami finish |
- Add 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Stir until fully incorporated and the sauce is velvety smooth.
“The key to the luxurious sauce lies in patience and constant whisking for that perfect silky texture.”
Combining Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Boil 1 pound elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Drain immediately.
- Optionally rinse macaroni briefly with cold water to halt cooking and prevent mushiness.
- Transfer pasta to a large mixing bowl. Pour the hot cheese sauce over the macaroni.
- Gently fold the mixture until every piece is evenly coated in the luscious cheese sauce.
Baking the Mac and Cheese
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly butter an ovenproof baking dish.
- Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared dish, spreading evenly.
- For a golden, crispy topping, sprinkle evenly with 1 cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tablespoons melted butter.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the top is bubbling and golden brown.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Serving Suggestions
To complement Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese, we recommend serving it alongside dishes that balance its rich, creamy texture and bold cheese flavors. Here are several ideas to elevate the dining experience:
Classic Pairings
- Steak or grilled meats: The indulgent creaminess of the mac and cheese pairs perfectly with a juicy ribeye or filet mignon, a hallmark combination at Ruby’s steakhouse.
- Roasted or grilled vegetables: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans provide a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the decadent cheese sauce.
- Fresh green salad: A crisp mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate.
Comfort Food Combo
- Barbecue dishes: Pulled pork, brisket, or smoked ribs complement the smoky undertone of the mac and cheese’s Parmesan crust.
- Fried chicken or crispy pork chops: The crunchy texture of fried foods contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese, creating a satisfying mouthfeel.
Serving Tips to Enhance Experience
- Serve mac and cheese hot and fresh from the oven to enjoy the melty sauce and crispy panko breadcrumb topping as intended.
- For a touch of luxury, top each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or a dash of smoked paprika.
- Offer a side of garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up any extra cheese sauce.
Portion Guide
Refer to the table below for recommended serving sizes especially when pairing with other mains to avoid overindulgence:
| Occasion | Serving Size per Person | Suggested Sides |
|---|---|---|
| Family Dinner | ½ to ¾ cup | Salad, grilled veggies |
| Special Occasion | ¾ to 1 cup | Steak, roasted asparagus |
| BBQ or Casual | ½ cup | Pulled pork, fried chicken |
By matching the rich, velvety texture of Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese with these thoughtful pairings and additions, we create a balanced meal that impresses guests without overwhelming the senses. Let’s serve it as the star or the perfect supporting dish with confidence.
Make-Ahead Tips
Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese is perfect for preparing in advance without sacrificing its creamy texture and bold flavor. Here are our best make-ahead tips to ensure a seamless reheating process and maintain the dish’s signature richness.
Prepare Ahead and Store Properly
- Cook the pasta al dente and combine it immediately with the cheese sauce. Avoid overcooking the macaroni as it will continue to soften during storage.
- Transfer the mac and cheese into an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 48 hours. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to one month, ensuring it is well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
| Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 2 days | Use airtight containers |
| Freezer | 1 month | Double wrap with foil and plastic |
Reheating Instructions
- From the refrigerator: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the mac and cheese with foil to keep moisture locked in. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until heated through.
- From the freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Follow the same reheating steps or bake uncovered the last 5 minutes to re-crisp the topping.
“Reheating gently and covering the dish preserves the luscious creamy sauce and the perfect bite of the macaroni.”
Crispy Topping Make-Ahead Strategy
For that irresistible golden crust:
- Store the panko breadcrumb topping separately at room temperature.
- Sprinkle and bake the topping only during the final reheating stage. This prevents sogginess and keeps the crunchy contrast fresh.
Additional Pro Tips
- When reheating, stir gently halfway through baking if you prefer a more uniformly heated dish.
- Add a splash of whole milk or heavy cream before baking if the mac and cheese appears thick or dry.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or a pinch of black pepper during reheating.
By following these Make-Ahead Tips, we ensure Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese remains a show-stopping dish, ready to impress even on busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Conclusion
Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese recipe brings a luxurious twist to a beloved classic, making it a must-have in our recipe collection. Its rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta deliver comfort and elegance in every bite. Whether for a special dinner or a cozy night in, this dish never fails to impress.
With the right ingredients and attention to detail, we can easily recreate this upscale comfort food at home. It’s versatile, satisfying, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals. Let’s embrace the joy of making and sharing this timeless favorite that elevates any table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese different from regular recipes?
Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese uses a blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, cream cheese, and Parmesan for a rich, creamy sauce with balanced flavors, elevating the classic comfort dish into an indulgent yet approachable meal.
Which cheeses are used in Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese?
The recipe combines sharp cheddar, Gruyère, cream cheese, and Parmesan to create a smooth, flavorful, and luscious cheese sauce.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Elbow macaroni is recommended because it holds the cheese sauce well and cooks to the perfect al dente texture.
Do I need special kitchen tools to make this dish?
Basic tools like a large pot, colander, medium saucepan, whisk, sharp knife, measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowl, and optionally an ovenproof baking dish are needed.
How do you make the cheese sauce for this mac and cheese?
First, create a roux with butter and flour, then slowly whisk in milk and cream until thick. Add the cheese blend and seasonings while stirring constantly to achieve a silky sauce.
Can the mac and cheese be baked for a crispy topping?
Yes, after mixing pasta with cheese sauce, you can bake it with a panko breadcrumb topping for a golden, crunchy crust.
What are good side dishes to serve with Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese?
Steak, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, barbecue, fried chicken, or garlic bread pair well to balance the rich and creamy dish.
Can Jeff Ruby’s Mac and Cheese be made ahead of time?
Yes, it can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours or frozen for a month. Reheat gently, adding milk or cream to maintain creaminess, and keep panko crumbs separate to keep them crispy.
How do I reheat leftover mac and cheese without drying it out?
Reheat slowly, either in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore moisture and creaminess.
Is the recipe suitable for both casual and special occasions?
Absolutely. The dish is rich yet approachable, making it ideal for everyday meals or impressive enough for guests and special events.