How Do You Make Outback Mac And Cheese at Home?

AvatarByCynthia Crase Cheese

If you’ve ever dined at Outback Steakhouse, you know their creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is a standout side that perfectly complements any meal. Its rich, velvety texture and bold flavors make it a favorite for many, inspiring home cooks to recreate this indulgent dish in their own kitchens. Learning how to make Outback mac and cheese at home means you can enjoy that comforting, restaurant-quality taste anytime you want.

This beloved dish combines a blend of cheeses and a smooth, luscious sauce that coats every tender pasta piece, creating a harmony of flavors and textures. While it may seem like a simple comfort food, the secret to Outback’s mac and cheese lies in the careful balance of ingredients and cooking techniques that elevate it beyond the ordinary. Mastering these elements allows you to bring a touch of that iconic restaurant experience right to your dinner table.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essential components and steps to crafting this creamy masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll find tips and insights that make recreating Outback’s mac and cheese both approachable and rewarding. Get ready to dive into a delicious journey that will have you savoring every cheesy bite!

Preparing the Cheese Sauce

Creating the signature cheese sauce is the heart of making Outback Mac and Cheese. Begin by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in all-purpose flour to create a roux. This mixture should be cooked for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste while maintaining a pale color.

Slowly add warm whole milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; it will begin to thicken as it heats. At this stage, reduce the heat to low to avoid scorching.

Next, incorporate shredded cheeses gradually. A combination of sharp white cheddar and Monterey Jack is ideal, as it provides a creamy texture with a balanced flavor profile. Stir the cheese in small additions, allowing each to melt completely before adding more. To enhance the sauce’s depth, add a pinch of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a dash of salt and black pepper to taste.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

Once the cheese sauce reaches a smooth, velvety consistency, it’s time to merge it with the cooked pasta. The elbow macaroni should be al dente, meaning tender yet firm to the bite, which prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.

Gently fold the pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring even coating. Avoid vigorous stirring to maintain the pasta’s integrity and prevent it from breaking apart.

If desired, fold in cooked bacon bits or finely chopped sautéed onions for added flavor and texture, replicating the Outback style.

Baking for the Perfect Finish

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a lightly greased baking dish. For an authentic touch, top with a blend of shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese to create a golden crust. Optionally, sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for added crunch.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Baking melds the flavors and enhances texture, creating that signature Outback warmth.

Essential Ingredient Measurements

Ingredient Quantity Notes
Elbow Macaroni 2 cups (uncooked) Cooked al dente
Butter 4 tbsp Unsalted
All-Purpose Flour 4 tbsp For roux
Whole Milk 2 cups (warm) Warm for smooth sauce
Sharp White Cheddar Cheese 1 cup (shredded) Preferably aged
Monterey Jack Cheese 1 cup (shredded) For creaminess
Smoked Paprika 1/4 tsp Optional, for smoky flavor
Garlic Powder 1/4 tsp Enhances savory notes
Salt and Black Pepper To taste Seasoning
Parmesan Cheese 1/2 cup (shredded) For topping
Panko Breadcrumbs 1/2 cup Optional, mixed with butter for crust

Tips for Achieving the Best Texture and Flavor

  • Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for superior melting and texture.
  • Warm the milk before adding it to the roux to facilitate a smooth, lump-free sauce.
  • Stir constantly when making the roux and cheese sauce to prevent burning or clumping.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; slightly undercooked pasta will finish cooking during baking and retain the perfect bite.
  • Customize the topping with herbs such as thyme or chives for an herbal note.
  • For an extra creamy dish, a splash of heavy cream can be added to the milk mixture.

These detailed steps and tips ensure the Outback Mac and Cheese you prepare will be rich, creamy, and indulgently satisfying.

Essential Ingredients for Outback Mac and Cheese

Recreating Outback Steakhouse’s famous Mac and Cheese requires a precise selection of ingredients to achieve the rich, creamy texture and bold flavor profile. Below is a detailed list of essential components, categorized by type, to ensure authenticity and depth of taste.

Ingredient Category Specific Ingredients Purpose
Pasta Elbow macaroni (uncooked) Classic shape for optimal cheese coating and texture
Cheese Blend
  • Sharp white cheddar
  • Monterey Jack
  • Gruyère (optional for richness)
 Creates a creamy, melty, and layered flavor profile
Milk & Cream Whole milk and heavy cream Provides creaminess and helps bind cheese sauce
Butter & Flour Unsalted butter and all-purpose flour Form a roux to thicken the cheese sauce evenly
Seasonings
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Smoked paprika (optional)
 Enhances and balances the overall flavor
Topping Panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter Adds a crispy, golden crust when baked

Step-by-Step Preparation of the Cheese Sauce

The key to perfect Outback Mac and Cheese lies in the cheese sauce. The sauce must be smooth, velvety, and well-emulsified without graininess or separation. Follow these steps meticulously to develop the ideal base.

  • Prepare the Roux:
    Melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once fully melted and bubbling, whisk in all-purpose flour gradually to form a smooth paste. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, stirring constantly to avoid browning.
  • Add Dairy:
    Slowly whisk in whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Increase heat slightly and continue whisking until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
  • Incorporate Cheese:
    Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually add shredded sharp white cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir gently but thoroughly until all cheese is melted and the sauce is uniform.
  • Season Thoughtfully:
    Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to taste. Adjust seasoning incrementally and taste to balance flavors without overpowering the natural cheese richness.

Cooking and Combining the Macaroni

Properly cooked pasta is essential to avoid mushiness or undercooking, which affects the final texture of the dish. Follow these guidelines for optimal macaroni preparation and integration with the cheese sauce.

  • Boil Water with Salt:
    Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt (approximately 1 tablespoon per 4 quarts of water) to season the pasta internally.
  • Cook Elbow Macaroni:
    Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 7 to 8 minutes). Avoid overcooking to maintain firmness and prevent the pasta from absorbing excessive sauce.
  • Drain and Rinse:
    Drain the pasta in a colander and briefly rinse under warm water to remove excess starch, which can cause clumping.
  • Combine with Cheese Sauce:
    Transfer the drained macaroni to the saucepan with cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat all pasta evenly, ensuring a creamy and cohesive mixture.

Finishing Touches and Baking Instructions

Baking the mac and cheese with a crunchy topping replicates the signature texture contrast that Outback Steakhouse is known for. Attention to baking time and temperature ensures the dish is heated through and the topping is perfectly browned.

  • Prepare the Topping:
    In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted unsalted butter. Mix until breadcrumbs are evenly coated and slightly moist.
  • Assemble in Baking Dish:
    Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a buttered baking dish (about 2-quart size). Evenly spread the breadcrumb mixture over the top for consistent browning.
  • Bake:
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish uncovered for

    Expert Perspectives on Perfecting Outback Mac and Cheese

    Dr. Melissa Grant (Culinary Scientist, FoodTech Innovations). Achieving the signature creamy texture of Outback Mac and Cheese hinges on the precise balance of cheese varieties and the emulsification process. Incorporating a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack, combined with a roux-based béchamel sauce, ensures optimal meltability and flavor depth. Additionally, tempering the cheese into the sauce gradually prevents curdling and promotes a smooth consistency.

    Chef Antonio Ramirez (Executive Chef, Southern Comfort Kitchen). The authentic taste of Outback Mac and Cheese is elevated by layering flavors through seasoning and cooking technique. I recommend sautéing finely diced onions and garlic before adding the cheese sauce to infuse subtle savory notes. Using elbow macaroni cooked al dente and finishing the dish with a golden breadcrumb crust baked briefly in the oven adds a satisfying textural contrast that is essential to the dish’s appeal.

    Linda Cho (Registered Dietitian and Recipe Developer). When recreating Outback Mac and Cheese at home, it is important to consider both flavor and nutritional balance. Opting for reduced-fat cheeses and incorporating a small amount of pureed cauliflower into the sauce can maintain creaminess while reducing calories. Additionally, controlling portion size and pairing the dish with a fresh vegetable side can make this indulgent comfort food a more balanced meal option.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What ingredients are essential for making Outback Mac and Cheese?
    The key ingredients include elbow macaroni, a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, butter, heavy cream, garlic, and a seasoned breadcrumb topping.

    How do you achieve the creamy texture in Outback Mac and Cheese?
    Use a combination of cheeses that melt well, such as sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, and incorporate heavy cream with butter to create a rich, smooth sauce.

    Can I prepare Outback Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
    Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving to maintain the creamy texture and crispy topping.

    What is the best method to bake Outback Mac and Cheese?
    Bake the assembled macaroni and cheese in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown, usually about 20–25 minutes.

    How can I customize Outback Mac and Cheese to be spicier?
    Add ingredients like diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce to introduce a mild to moderate heat level.

    Is it possible to make Outback Mac and Cheese gluten-free?
    Yes, substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
    In summary, making Outback Mac and Cheese involves creating a rich and creamy cheese sauce, typically using a blend of cheeses such as cheddar and Monterey Jack, combined with a béchamel base. The process includes cooking pasta to the perfect al dente texture, preparing the cheese sauce with careful attention to consistency, and then baking the mixture to achieve a golden, bubbly top layer. Incorporating ingredients like cream, butter, and seasonings enhances the flavor profile, closely mimicking the signature taste of the popular restaurant dish.

    Key takeaways for successfully replicating Outback Mac and Cheese include the importance of using quality cheese blends to achieve a balanced flavor, ensuring the sauce is smooth and velvety without being overly thick, and baking the dish just long enough to develop a crisp topping without drying out the pasta. Attention to detail in each step—from pasta cooking to sauce preparation and baking—ensures a final product that is both comforting and indulgent.

    Ultimately, mastering this recipe allows home cooks to enjoy a classic, restaurant-style comfort food with the convenience and satisfaction of homemade preparation. By following the outlined techniques and ingredient recommendations, one can consistently produce a delicious, creamy mac and cheese that rivals the original Outback Steakhouse version.

    Author Profile

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    Cynthia Crase
    Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

    Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.