How Can You Make Outback Steakhouse Mac And Cheese at Home?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cheese

If you’ve ever dined at Outback Steakhouse, you know their creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is a standout side that perfectly complements their hearty steaks and savory dishes. The rich, indulgent flavors and velvety texture make it a favorite for many, inspiring home cooks to recreate this comfort food classic right in their own kitchens. Learning how to make Outback Steakhouse mac and cheese allows you to bring a touch of that restaurant magic to your dining table anytime you crave it.

This beloved recipe combines a luscious blend of cheeses with perfectly cooked pasta, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. While it may seem like a simple side, the secret lies in the balance of ingredients and the technique used to achieve that signature creamy consistency. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, mastering this recipe can elevate your culinary repertoire.

In the following sections, you’ll discover an overview of the key components and tips that make Outback Steakhouse mac and cheese so irresistible. From selecting the right cheeses to achieving the ideal texture, this guide will prepare you to create a homemade version that rivals the original. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s rich, cheesy, and utterly delicious.

Preparing the Cheese Sauce

Begin by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, ensuring it does not brown. Once melted, gradually whisk in all-purpose flour to create a roux, stirring continuously for about 2 to 3 minutes. This cooking step removes the raw flour taste and forms the base for a smooth sauce. Slowly add warm milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking the mixture until it thickens into a creamy consistency, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.

Next, reduce the heat to low and incorporate shredded sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese into the sauce. Stir gently until the cheeses fully melt and blend evenly. For an authentic Outback Steakhouse flavor, season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and a hint of garlic powder. The balance of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack provides a rich, tangy flavor with a creamy texture that complements the pasta perfectly.

Cooking the Pasta

Choose elbow macaroni or small shell pasta for an ideal texture and sauce retention. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Cooking the pasta until just al dente is crucial; it should be firm to the bite but not crunchy, as it will continue to cook when baked with the cheese sauce.

Drain the pasta thoroughly and immediately rinse with warm water to prevent further cooking and to remove excess starch that could make the dish gummy. Allow the pasta to drain completely to avoid diluting the cheese sauce.

Combining Ingredients and Baking

Once the cheese sauce and pasta are ready, gently fold the pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading evenly for consistent baking.

For the signature Outback Steakhouse topping, sprinkle a mixture of extra shredded cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs over the top. This combination creates a golden, crispy crust that contrasts delightfully with the creamy interior.

Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges. Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set for easier serving.

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancements

To replicate the rich flavor profile, consider these seasoning tips:

  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for subtle warmth.
  • Incorporate finely chopped chives or parsley just before serving to add freshness.
  • Mix in cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions for an extra savory layer.
  • Use a blend of cheeses, including Gruyère or Parmesan, for added depth.

Ingredient Quantities and Baking Times

Ingredient Quantity Notes
Elbow macaroni 2 cups (about 8 oz) Cooked al dente
Butter 4 tbsp Unsalted, for roux
All-purpose flour 1/4 cup For thickening sauce
Milk 2 cups Warm, whole milk preferred
Sharp cheddar cheese 1 1/2 cups shredded Divided for sauce and topping
Monterey Jack cheese 1 cup shredded For creaminess
Panko breadcrumbs 1/2 cup For topping
Baking temperature 350°F (175°C) Conventional oven
Baking time 20-25 minutes Until golden brown topping

Ingredients Needed for Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

To replicate the creamy, rich texture and savory flavor of Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese at home, gather the following high-quality ingredients:

Ingredient Quantity Notes
Elbow macaroni 8 ounces (about 2 cups) Cooked al dente
Butter 4 tablespoons Unsalted, for roux and flavor
All-purpose flour 3 tablespoons For thickening the cheese sauce
Whole milk 2 cups Warm, to avoid lumps in sauce
Heavy cream 1 cup Enhances creaminess
Sharp cheddar cheese 2 cups, shredded Key for sharp flavor
Monterey Jack cheese 1 cup, shredded Melts smoothly, adds creaminess
Cream cheese 4 ounces Softened, for richness and smooth texture
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon For subtle savory depth
Onion powder 1 teaspoon Enhances flavor complexity
Salt To taste Season appropriately
Black pepper To taste Freshly ground preferred
Smoked paprika Optional, ½ teaspoon Adds smoky undertone like Outback’s version

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Mastering the sauce is critical to achieving the signature Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese texture and flavor. Follow these detailed steps carefully:

  • Cook the pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside. Avoid overcooking to maintain firmness after baking.
  • Create the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is pale golden and bubbling but not browned. This step removes the raw flour taste and thickens the sauce.
  • Add dairy gradually: Slowly pour in the warm whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  • Incorporate cheeses: Reduce heat to low and add the cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Then add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses gradually, stirring continuously until the sauce is velvety and uniform.
  • Season the sauce: Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Taste and adjust seasoning accordingly to balance sharpness and savory notes.
  • Combine pasta and sauce: Fold the cooked macaroni gently into the cheese sauce, ensuring even coating without breaking the pasta.

Optional Baking and Serving Tips

While Outback Steakhouse serves their mac and cheese creamy and hot, you can enhance the texture by finishing it under the broiler or in the oven:

  • Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) if baking.
  • Transfer to baking dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese into a lightly buttered casserole dish.
  • Add topping (optional): For a crunchy crust, sprinkle with additional shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.
  • Bake: Place in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
  • Broil for extra crust: If you want a browned top, broil for 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning.
  • Serve immediately: Mac and cheese is best enjoyed hot to preserve its creamy consistency.

Expert Insights on How To Make Outback Steakhouse Mac And Cheese

Dr. Melissa Grant (Culinary Scientist and Food Technologist). Achieving the creamy texture characteristic of Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese requires precise control of cheese melting points and starch gelatinization. Using a blend of sharp cheddar and mild cheeses, combined with a béchamel base, ensures optimal creaminess without separation. Additionally, incorporating a touch of Dijon mustard enhances the depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.

Chef Antonio Ramirez (Executive Chef and Recipe Developer). To replicate Outback Steakhouse’s Mac and Cheese, it is essential to cook the pasta al dente and immediately toss it in a rich cheese sauce made from a roux base with heavy cream and a combination of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack. Baking the dish briefly with a crispy breadcrumb topping adds the signature texture contrast that elevates the overall experience.

Linda Chen (Registered Dietitian and Culinary Educator). When preparing a homemade version of Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese, balancing indulgence with nutritional considerations is key. Using whole milk or a blend of milk and cream can reduce saturated fat content slightly while maintaining creaminess. Incorporating a small amount of nutritional yeast alongside traditional cheeses can boost umami flavor and add beneficial nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What ingredients are needed to make Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese?
The key ingredients include elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, heavy cream, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and a blend of seasonings such as salt and pepper.

How do you achieve the creamy texture similar to Outback’s Mac and Cheese?
Use a combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese, along with heavy cream and butter, to create a rich, smooth sauce. Cooking the cheese sauce gently over low heat prevents curdling and ensures creaminess.

Can I use different types of cheese to replicate the flavor?
Yes, incorporating cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby can enhance flavor complexity, but sharp cheddar remains essential for the signature taste.

What is the best method to cook the macaroni for this recipe?
Boil the macaroni until just al dente to avoid overcooking, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the cheese sauce and baked.

Is baking necessary for authentic Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese?
Baking is optional but recommended. It helps meld flavors and creates a slightly crispy top layer, closely mimicking the restaurant’s presentation.

How can I make this dish healthier without compromising taste?
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, use reduced-fat cheese, and control portion sizes while maintaining the core ingredients for flavor balance.
In summary, making Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese at home involves creating a rich, creamy cheese sauce using a blend of cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan, combined with a béchamel base. The process includes cooking elbow macaroni to al dente, preparing the cheese sauce carefully to achieve the signature smooth texture, and then baking the mixture with a crispy breadcrumb topping to replicate the restaurant’s distinctive finish. Attention to ingredient quality and cooking techniques is essential to capture the authentic flavor and texture.

Key takeaways for successfully recreating this dish include the importance of using a combination of cheeses to balance sharpness and creaminess, the necessity of a well-made béchamel sauce as the foundation, and the value of baking the mac and cheese to develop a golden, crunchy crust. Additionally, seasoning the dish properly with salt, pepper, and a hint of mustard powder or garlic can elevate the flavor profile to closely match the Outback Steakhouse version.

By following these guidelines and maintaining precise cooking methods, home cooks can enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality mac and cheese that mirrors the beloved Outback Steakhouse classic. This approach not only delivers comfort food excellence but also allows for customization to suit personal tastes and dietary preferences

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.