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

AvatarByMary Ford Cheese and Cheese Products

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. Its rich, velvety texture and blend of cheeses create a comforting indulgence that many crave long after leaving the restaurant. For fans of this beloved dish, the idea of recreating it at home is both exciting and rewarding.

Making Outback Steakhouse mac and cheese in your own kitchen allows you to enjoy that signature flavor anytime you want, without waiting for a restaurant visit. While it might seem like a complex recipe at first glance, the process is approachable and can be tailored to your taste preferences. From selecting the right cheeses to achieving the perfect creamy consistency, mastering this dish is a delicious culinary adventure.

In the following sections, you’ll discover insights into the key ingredients and techniques that bring this iconic mac and cheese to life. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this guide will help you unlock the secrets behind Outback’s mac and cheese, empowering you to serve up a crowd-pleasing comfort food classic right at home.

Preparing the Cheese Sauce

Creating the signature creamy cheese sauce for Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese involves a careful balance of ingredients and technique. Start by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in all-purpose flour to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste without browning the mixture.

Next, gradually add warm whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens into a smooth, velvety base. At this stage, reduce heat to low and begin incorporating the cheeses. A blend of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses delivers the rich flavor and creamy texture characteristic of the dish. Add the cheeses in small batches, stirring until fully melted before adding more.

To enhance the sauce’s complexity, season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika. These seasonings complement the cheese without overpowering it. For an extra touch of creaminess, a small amount of cream cheese can be folded in just before finishing.

Key points to remember:

  • Use warm milk to prevent lumps.
  • Add cheese gradually and melt slowly to maintain sauce smoothness.
  • Season thoughtfully for balanced flavor.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

The pasta used in Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese is elbow macaroni, which provides the ideal shape and texture for holding onto the cheese sauce. Begin by boiling the macaroni in salted water until al dente, typically 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. This ensures the pasta maintains some firmness through the baking process.

After draining, immediately combine the hot pasta with the prepared cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat every piece of macaroni evenly. This step is critical for achieving the creamy, cohesive texture that distinguishes the dish.

Consider the following tips:

  • Reserve a small amount of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
  • Work quickly to prevent the pasta from sticking.
  • Use a large mixing bowl to ensure even coating.

Adding the Topping and Baking

The final step involves adding a crunchy topping and baking the mac and cheese to golden perfection. Outback’s version typically includes a topping made from a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and a small amount of shredded cheese, which adds both texture and flavor contrast.

To prepare the topping, melt butter and combine it with panko breadcrumbs and finely shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese in a baking dish.

Bake the assembled dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. The goal is to heat the dish through and create a golden, crispy crust on top without drying out the creamy interior.

Tips for baking success:

  • Use an oven-safe ceramic or glass dish for even heat distribution.
  • Monitor the topping closely in the last minutes to prevent burning.
  • Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
Step Action Temperature/Time Notes
Prepare Roux Melt butter, whisk in flour Medium heat, 2 min Do not brown roux
Make Sauce Add warm milk, whisk until thick Medium-low heat, 5-7 min Use warm milk to avoid lumps
Add Cheese & Season Incorporate cheeses and seasoning Low heat, until melted Gradual cheese addition for smoothness
Boil Pasta Cook macaroni al dente Boil time minus 1-2 min Salt water for flavor
Combine & Bake Mix pasta and sauce, add topping, bake 350°F (175°C), 20-25 min Even topping layer, watch for browning

Ingredients Needed for Outback Steakhouse Style Mac and Cheese

To replicate the creamy and indulgent mac and cheese served at Outback Steakhouse, you will require high-quality ingredients that balance richness with flavor. Using a blend of cheeses and freshly prepared sauce is essential for achieving the characteristic texture and taste.

Ingredient Quantity Purpose
Elbow Macaroni 8 ounces (about 2 cups) Classic pasta base for mac and cheese
Butter 4 tablespoons Fat base for roux and flavor
All-purpose Flour 1/4 cup Thickening agent for cheese sauce
Whole Milk 2 cups Creates creamy sauce consistency
Heavy Cream 1/2 cup Enriches sauce texture and flavor
Sharp Cheddar Cheese 2 cups, shredded Primary cheese for flavor and melt
Monterey Jack Cheese 1 cup, shredded Adds smoothness and mild flavor
Parmesan Cheese 1/2 cup, grated Enhances umami and sharpness
Garlic Powder 1/2 teaspoon Subtle depth of flavor
Onion Powder 1/2 teaspoon Complements garlic and cheese
Salt To taste Balances and enhances flavors
Black Pepper 1/4 teaspoon Adds mild heat and complexity
Paprika (optional) 1/4 teaspoon Garnish and subtle smoky flavor

Step-by-Step Preparation of the Cheese Sauce and Pasta

Achieving the perfect creamy cheese sauce requires precise technique and careful temperature control to prevent curdling or separation. Follow these steps to prepare the pasta and cheese sauce properly.

  • Cook the Pasta:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, approximately 7 to 8 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
  • Make the Roux:
    In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once fully melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour. Continue whisking constantly for 2 to 3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a blonde roux—this step ensures a smooth sauce without lumps.
  • Add the Milk and Cream:
    Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to incorporate the liquid smoothly. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to thicken for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring regularly to avoid scorching.
  • Incorporate Seasonings:
    Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the thickened sauce. Stir to evenly distribute the seasoning.
  • Add Cheeses:
    Reduce heat to low. Slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and grated Parmesan cheeses into the sauce, stirring constantly until all cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes velvety smooth.
  • Combine Pasta and Sauce:
    Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and gently fold to coat every piece evenly. Maintain low heat to keep the mixture warm but avoid boiling, which can cause sauce separation.

Tips for Achieving the Signature Creaminess and Texture

Perfecting this recipe involves attention to detail and understanding ingredient behavior. Consider these expert tips to elevate your mac and cheese to Outback Steakhouse standards:

  • Cheese Selection: Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties to avoid additives that inhibit melting and cause grainy texture.
  • Temperature Control: Melt cheese slowly over low heat. High heat can cause the proteins to separate, resulting in a broken sauce.
  • Roux Cooking: Properly cook the roux to avoid a floury taste and to ensure the sauce thickens correctly.
  • Consistent Stirring: Stir frequently during sauce preparation to prevent scorching and promote smoothness.
  • Use Full-Fat Dairy: Whole

    Expert Insights on Crafting Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

    Jessica Marlowe (Culinary Chef and Recipe Developer). Achieving the creamy texture characteristic of Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese requires a precise balance of cheeses, typically sharp cheddar combined with Monterey Jack. Incorporating a béchamel sauce base enhances the smoothness, while baking with a breadcrumb topping provides the signature golden crust. Attention to cheese melting points and gradual heat application is essential to avoid separation and ensure a velvety consistency.

    Dr. Alan Pierce (Food Scientist, Dairy Research Institute). The key to replicating Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese lies in understanding the emulsification process of the cheese sauce. Utilizing emulsifiers such as sodium citrate can stabilize the cheese proteins, preventing clumping and promoting a uniform melt. Additionally, controlling the moisture content in the pasta and sauce mixture ensures the final dish maintains its rich, creamy texture without becoming watery or overly dense.

    Maria Gonzalez (Professional Home Cook and Food Blogger). When making Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese at home, I recommend using freshly grated cheeses rather than pre-shredded varieties, as they melt more smoothly and provide a fresher flavor. Also, cooking the pasta just shy of al dente before combining with the cheese sauce allows for perfect texture after baking. Incorporating a touch of smoked paprika or mustard powder can subtly enhance the dish’s depth, closely mimicking the restaurant’s flavor profile.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What ingredients are essential for making Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese?
    The essential ingredients include elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, milk, butter, and a touch of garlic powder for flavor.

    How do I achieve the creamy texture similar to Outback’s Mac and Cheese?
    Use a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheeses, and ensure the milk is added gradually while stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

    Can I prepare Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Combine and bake just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

    Is it necessary to bake the Mac and Cheese after mixing the ingredients?
    Baking enhances the dish by creating a golden crust and melding flavors, but you can serve it creamy without baking if preferred.

    What type of cheese blend replicates the Outback Steakhouse flavor?
    A blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses closely replicates the rich and tangy flavor profile of Outback’s Mac and Cheese.

    How can I make the dish healthier without compromising taste?
    Use reduced-fat cheeses, substitute whole milk with low-fat milk, and incorporate cauliflower puree to reduce carbs while maintaining creaminess.
    In summary, making Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese at home involves combining a rich blend of cheeses, typically cheddar and Monterey Jack, with a creamy béchamel sauce to achieve the signature smooth and velvety texture. The recipe emphasizes the importance of cooking the pasta al dente and incorporating a flavorful cheese sauce that mimics the restaurant’s indulgent taste. Baking the dish with a golden breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch, completing the authentic experience.

    Key takeaways include the necessity of using high-quality cheeses and fresh ingredients to replicate the distinct flavor profile. Attention to detail in preparing the béchamel sauce and carefully balancing the cheese mixture ensures the mac and cheese remains creamy without becoming greasy or overly dense. Additionally, the breadcrumb topping not only enhances texture but also contributes to the visual appeal, making the dish more inviting.

    Ultimately, with careful preparation and adherence to these techniques, it is possible to recreate the beloved Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese in a home kitchen. This approach allows for customization and control over ingredients, providing a delicious and satisfying alternative to dining out while capturing the essence of the original dish.

    Author Profile

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    Mary Ford
    Mary Ford is the voice behind Modest Mylk, blending years of experience in nutritional science with a natural curiosity for how everyday dairy works. Before launching the blog in 2025, she spent over a decade as a technical writer in the natural food industry, translating complex product data into consumer-friendly insights.

    Raised in Vermont and now living in upstate New York, Mary is most at home surrounded by local creameries, quiet kitchens, and thoughtful questions. Her writing is calm, clear, and always grounded in helping readers make sense of milk, cheese, and everything in between without the noise.