Unlock the Secret Recipe: How to Make Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese Like a Pro!

Are you tired of endlessly searching for that perfect mac and cheese recipe, only to be left disappointed by the results? Look no further, because we have the solution for you – Outback Steakhouse’s famous mac and cheese! This creamy, indulgent dish has become a staple at the popular restaurant chain, leaving diners craving for more. But what if we told you that you could recreate this flavor-packed dish right in your own kitchen? Yes, that’s right – today we will be sharing the secret behind Outback Steakhouse’s irresistible mac and cheese. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our easy-to-follow guide on how to make Outback Steakhouse mac and cheese.

The History of Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Outback Steakhouse is an Australian-themed American casual dining restaurant chain that was founded in 1988. Although primarily known for their steaks and bloomin’ onions, one menu item that has been a longtime fan favorite is their mac and cheese. This side dish has been a staple on the menu since the beginning and has remained a customer favorite over the years.

The original recipe for Outback’s mac and cheese was developed by founders Chris Sullivan, Bob Basham, and Tim Gannon. They wanted to create a dish that would complement their hearty steaks but also appeal to all ages. The result was a creamy and delicious mac and cheese with a unique twist – bacon! This added ingredient gives the dish an extra layer of flavor that sets it apart from other versions of mac and cheese.

As the restaurant chain grew in popularity, so did their signature mac and cheese. It has become a must-try for first-time visitors at Outback Steakhouse, as well as a go-to choice for returning customers. In fact, some fans have even attempted to recreate the dish at home with some success, but nothing beats the real thing from Outback.

The Key Ingredients of Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Making Outback’s mac and cheese at home may seem daunting, but with the right ingredients, you can recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen. Here are the key ingredients that make up their famous side dish:

1. Elbow Macaroni – The pasta used in this recipe is elbow macaroni, which is classic for any mac and cheese dish. This type of pasta has a small tubular shape that holds onto creamy sauces like no other.

2. Cheese Sauce – To achieve that signature creamy texture in Outback’s mac and cheese, they use a combination of three types of cheese: cheddar, Parmesan, and Romano. The cheddar provides a sharp and tangy flavor, while the Parmesan and Romano add depth and complexity to the sauce.

3. Bacon – As mentioned earlier, bacon is what sets Outback’s mac and cheese apart from others. The savory and smoky flavor of the bacon pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy cheese sauce.

4. Crouton Topping – This might seem like an unusual ingredient for mac and cheese, but it adds a delicious crunch to each bite. Plus, it gives the dish a unique Outback twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Now that you know the key ingredients for Outback’s mac and cheese, let’s dive into how to prepare it at home. Here is a step-by-step guide to making this delicious side dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta – Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add in elbow macaroni. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente, then drain.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce – In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Slowly add in flour and stir until smooth to make a roux. Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Add in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses, stirring until melted.

Step 3: Add in Bacon – Cut cooked bacon into small pieces and stir into the cheese sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Cheese Sauce – In a large mixing bowl, mix cooked elbow macaroni with the cheese sauce until all pasta is evenly coated.

Step 5: Make Crouton Topping – Crush croutons into small crumbs using your hands or a blender/food processor.

Step 6: Finish & Bake – Transfer mac and cheese into a baking dish and top with crouton crumbs. Bake in the oven at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Tips for Perfecting Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

– If you want to make this dish even more indulgent, add in extra bacon or mix in some shredded chicken.
– Don’t overcook your pasta! For the best texture, cook your macaroni until al dente which means it still has a slight bite to it.
– Use fresh cheeses for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded bagged cheeses often have additives that can affect the taste of the sauce.
– If you prefer a little more kick to your mac and cheese, add in some chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
– For a vegetarian-friendly version, substitute bacon with crispy fried onions or caramelized onions.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Although Outback’s mac and cheese is delicious on its own, there are some fun variations you can try to mix things up. Here are some ideas:

– Add in chopped broccoli, spinach, or peas for some added nutrients.
– Substitute elbow macaroni with your favorite pasta shape like

Outback Steakhouse is known for its delicious and satisfying meals, but one dish that truly stands out is their Mac and Cheese. Made with a blend of creamy cheeses and topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike. If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate this mouthwatering dish at home, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to make Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese from the comfort of your own kitchen.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that work together to give this dish its signature taste. These include elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, American cheese, Colby Jack cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Panko breadcrumbs. Each of these ingredients serves a specific purpose in creating the perfect blend of creaminess and crunchiness that makes Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese so irresistible.

Gathering Your Tools

Aside from the ingredients listed above, you’ll also need a few tools to successfully make Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese. These include a large pot for boiling the pasta, a medium-sized saucepan for making the sauce, a whisk for stirring the ingredients together smoothly, an oven-safe casserole dish for baking the macaroni and cheese in the oven, and aluminum foil to cover the dish while baking. Having all these tools ready before you begin will ensure a seamless cooking experience.

The Process of Making Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready to go, it’s time to start making your own Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese.

Step 1: Cook The Pasta
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package’s instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make The Cheese Sauce
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle flour over the melted butter and whisk until fully combined. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens.

Step 3: Add The Cheeses
Turn off the heat and add all the different types of cheese (cheddar, American, Colby Jack, and Parmesan) to the saucepan. Stir until all the cheese is melted and well combined with the sauce.

Step 4: Combine The Pasta And Cheese Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Mix well until every macaroni is coated with cheese sauce.

Step 5: Add Panko Breadcrumbs
Grease an oven-safe casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour in the macaroni and cheese mixture then sprinkle Panko breadcrumbs on top.

Step 6: Bake The Mac And Cheese
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until breadcrumbs are crispy and golden brown.

Tips For Making Perfect Outback Steakhouse Mac And Cheese

– If you don’t have all three types of cheeses listed above, you can substitute them with any other type of cheese that melts well.
– To make this dish even more indulgent, feel free to add bacon bits or sliced jalapenos on top before baking.
– For a creamier texture, you can add more heavy cream to your cheese sauce.
– Don’t overcook the pasta. Cook it until it’s al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven while it bakes.
– Use a whisk when making the cheese sauce to prevent lumps from forming.
– Make sure your casserole dish is deep enough to hold all the macaroni and cheese without spilling over.

How To Serve Outback Steakhouse Mac And Cheese

Once your Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it as a side dish with your favorite steak or chicken entree or enjoy it as a main dish on its own. This recipe yields about 8 servings, making it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks with friends.

The Verdict

Making Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese at home may seem like a daunting task, but with this simple recipe and some patience, you can easily recreate this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen. Pair it with a glass of wine or your favorite beverage, and you have yourself a delicious meal without having to leave your house. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!

1. What ingredients do I need to make Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese?
To make Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese, you will need elbow macaroni, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, smoked gouda cheese, bread crumbs, butter, all-purpose flour, dijon mustard, and salt.

2. How do I cook the macaroni for Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese?
Boil the macaroni in a pot of salted water for 8-10 minutes or until it is al dente. Drain the water and rinse the cooked macaroni with cold water to prevent it from sticking together.

3. What type of cheeses can I use for Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese?
The recipe calls for cheddar cheese and smoked gouda cheese, but you can also use other types of cheeses like Monterey Jack or white cheddar for different flavor variations.

4. How do I make the cheese sauce for this dish?
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour to make a roux, then slowly pour in heavy cream while continuously whisking until the mixture thickens. Add dijon mustard and a pinch of salt. Gradually stir in shredded cheeses until melted and smooth.

5. Do I have to bake the Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese?
Baking is optional but recommended as it gives a crispy golden topping to the dish. If you choose not to bake it, simply mix cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and serve.

6. How long should I bake Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese?
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle bread crumbs on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bread crumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

In conclusion, making Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese is a simple and delicious process that can be achieved with a few key ingredients and techniques. As discussed, it is important to use high-quality cheeses and pasta to achieve the signature rich and creamy texture of the dish. Additionally, properly cooking the roux and incorporating it into the cheese mixture is crucial for a smooth and flavorful sauce. By following these steps, anyone can recreate the iconic Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese at home.

It is also worth noting that this recipe allows for some flexibility to suit individual preferences. Experimenting with different types of cheese or adding in additional ingredients such as bacon or vegetables can elevate this dish even further. Furthermore, this mac and cheese pairs perfectly with any protein, making it a versatile side dish or main course option.

Aside from being a delicious comfort food, making Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese at home can also save time and money compared to dining out. With just a few simple steps, this restaurant favorite can be created in the comfort of one’s own kitchen.

In summary, mastering the art of making Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese involves using quality ingredients, proper cooking techniques, and allowing room for creativity. By doing so, you can enjoy this flavorful dish anytime without having

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Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.