Get ready to indulge in a comforting culinary delight – creamy outback mac and cheese! Who can resist the allure of a rich, cheesy pasta dish that’s both familiar and excitingly different? In this collection of 18 mouth-watering recipes, we’re taking inspiration from Outback Steakhouse’s iconic mac and cheese and elevating it to new heights. From classic combinations to bold twists, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and leave you wondering how you ever lived without them.
From smoky gouda to truffle oil-infused, and from pulled pork to lobster tail, each recipe is a masterclass in creamy, dreamy pasta perfection. So go ahead, get cozy, and let the cheesy goodness wash over you. Whether you’re a mac and cheese aficionado or just looking for some comfort food inspiration, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
Outback Steakhouse Copycat Mac and Cheese
Savor the comforting flavors of Outback’s famous macaroni and cheese with this easy-to-make copycat recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bacon and Jalapeño Outback Mac and Cheese
A twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the spicy kick of jalapeños for a bold and creamy comfort dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 large jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add chopped jalapeños to the same skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and paprika. Slowly add milk whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, bacon, jalapeños, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese. Pour in sauce and stir until well combined.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Three-Cheese Outback Macaroni Bake
A comforting, creamy pasta bake that combines the flavors of macaroni, three cheeses, and a hint of outback spices.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the dry mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Add cooked macaroni, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix until pasta is fully coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Outback Mac and Cheese
A twist on the classic comfort food, this recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and a hint of outback spices to create a creamy, indulgent macaroni dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon outback seasoning blend (or substitute with paprika and cayenne pepper)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add outback seasoning blend and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Gouda Outback Mac and Cheese
Smoked Gouda Outback Mac and Cheese Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of Australia with this creamy macaroni and cheese dish, elevated by the smoky notes of Smoked Gouda cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Smoked Gouda cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Smoked Gouda cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Loaded Outback Mac and Cheese with Pulled Pork
Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy macaroni dish loaded with tender pulled pork, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of cheddar magic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup pulled pork (store-bought or homemade)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, bringing mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, pulled pork, and crumbled bacon. Pour cheesy sauce over the top and mix until well combined.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Outback Mac and Cheese
Get ready for a bold twist on the classic mac and cheese! This recipe combines the creamy goodness of macaroni with the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz macaroni
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente.
3. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together for 1 minute.
5. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
7. Stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
8. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce; stir until well coated.
9. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Truffle Oil Infused Outback Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy Truffle Oil Infused Outback Mac and Cheese, featuring the bold flavors of Australia. This decadent twist on a classic macaroni and cheese dish combines truffle oil’s earthy notes with the savory essence of outback spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon truffle oil
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Add truffle oil, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Tail Outback Mac and Cheese
Transform your comfort food game with this decadent Lobster Tail Outback Mac and Cheese recipe! This indulgent dish combines the richness of lobster, the creaminess of macaroni and cheese, and the bold flavors of the Outback.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lobster tail (about 6 ounces), cooked and flaked
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and lobster tail into the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Outback Mac and Cheese
Transform your pasta game with this sweet and tangy twist on a classic comfort dish. This recipe combines the rich flavors of macaroni and cheese with the sticky sweetness of honey mustard glaze, all wrapped up in crispy chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked chicken to the glaze and coat evenly.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese and milk. Mix until creamy.
6. Top macaroni mixture with glazed chicken and remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Crispy Breadcrumb Topped Outback Mac and Cheese
Savor the flavors of a comforting macaroni and cheese dish, elevated by a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Add cooked macaroni and stir until coated.
6. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Outback Mac and Cheese Casserole
Savor the rich flavors of Australia with this comforting casserole, perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cooked bacon or ham for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
4. In the slow cooker, combine cooked macaroni, cheese mixture (cheddar and mozzarella), milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Top with optional bacon or ham, if using.
6. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours, until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Buffalo Chicken Outback Mac and Cheese
A creamy twist on classic mac and cheese, this recipe combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with a hint of Outback-style seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup cream
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp Outback seasoning blend
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine cream, buffalo wing sauce, and Outback seasoning blend. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese; stir until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked chicken, macaroni, and chopped green onions to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Breakfast Outback Mac and Cheese with Sausage
Start your day off right with this twist on a classic comfort food. This recipe combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the savory flavor of sausage, all wrapped up in an outback-inspired breakfast dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 4 sausage links (such as breakfast sausage or Italian sausage)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Cook sausage links according to package instructions until browned and cooked through.
7. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine macaroni, cheese sauce, and cooked sausage. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sundried Tomato and Spinach Outback Mac and Cheese
Elevate your mac and cheese game with this flavorful twist, featuring sundried tomatoes and fresh spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh spinach leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped sundried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle flour over the tomato mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and chopped spinach. Mix well to combine.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
BBQ Brisket Outback Mac and Cheese
A comforting twist on classic mac and cheese, this recipe combines the rich flavors of BBQ brisket with creamy pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown the brisket over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. Spread half of the macaroni on top of the brisket. Pour half of the BBQ sauce over the pasta.
5. Repeat layers, ending with the remaining pasta and cheese.
6. Dot the top with butter and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Cashew Cream Outback Mac and Cheese
Get ready to savor the creamy, cheesy goodness of this vegan macaroni dish, infused with a hint of outback flavors!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups cashews
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup vegan cheddar cheese shreds (such as Daiya)
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse with cold water.
4. In a blender, combine soaked cashews, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
5. In a large saucepan, whisk together vegan cheddar cheese shreds, nutritional yeast, and olive oil over medium heat.
6. Add the cashew cream to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bourbon-Glazed Outback Mac and Cheese
This rich and creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a bold twist with the addition of bourbon-infused glaze, perfect for a comforting dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey (or substitute with apple cider or orange juice)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, then add cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Add bourbon whiskey (or substitute) and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in creamy, cheesy goodness with these 18 savory recipes inspired by Outback Steakhouse’s famous mac and cheese. From classic copycat recipes to bold twists like bacon-jalapeño, truffle oil-infused, and even vegan options, there’s something for everyone in this mouth-watering collection. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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