Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Applebee’s version takes this beloved dish to the next level with its creamy, cheesy goodness and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies cravings and brings a smile to your face with every bite.
We love recreating restaurant favorites at home, and Applebee’s Mac N Cheese is no exception. This recipe captures the rich flavors and smooth texture that make it so addictive. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious mac and cheese right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To recreate Applebee’s Mac N Cheese Recipe, we need a blend of rich cheeses, perfectly cooked pasta, and a crispy topping that adds the ideal crunch. Below is a detailed list of all the ingredients we’ll use to capture that creamy, indulgent flavor.
Cheese Sauce Ingredients
The heart of the dish is the velvety cheese sauce. We combine a mix of cheeses and dairy to achieve that smooth, deeply flavorful sauce.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta Ingredients
The pasta choice is crucial for the right bite and sauce absorption. We opt for classic elbow macaroni.
- 3 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- Water to boil pasta
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
Topping Ingredients
To recreate Applebee’s crispy topping, we use a combination of bread crumbs and extra cheese to add a golden brown finish.
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
| Ingredient Category | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups | Shredded |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1 cup | Shredded |
| Cream Cheese | 1/2 cup | Softened |
| Whole Milk | 2 cups | |
| Heavy Cream | 1/2 cup | |
| Unsalted Butter | 5 tablespoons total | 3 tbsp for sauce, 2 tbsp for topping |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 tablespoons | |
| Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon | |
| Smoked Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Salt | To taste and 1 tbsp for pasta water | |
| Black Pepper | To taste | |
| Elbow Macaroni | 3 cups (uncooked) | |
| Panko Bread Crumbs | 1 cup |
Tip: Using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella gives us that rich, gooey texture and complex flavor synonymous with the Applebee’s classic mac and cheese.
Equipment Needed
To perfectly recreate Applebee’s Mac N Cheese at home, having the right equipment is essential. This gear ensures smooth preparation, even cooking, and that irresistible creamy texture we all love.
- Large Pot
For boiling elbow macaroni until al dente. Choose a pot large enough to allow the pasta room to cook evenly without sticking.
- Colander
To drain the cooked pasta efficiently while stopping the cooking process quickly.
- Medium Saucepan
To prepare the rich cheese sauce. A heavy-bottomed pan helps prevent burning and ensures smooth melting of cheeses.
- Whisk
Vital for stirring the cheese sauce consistently, encouraging a velvety texture without lumps.
- Mixing Bowl
For combining pasta and cheese sauce before transferring to the baking dish.
- Baking Dish (Approximately 8×8 inches)
To bake the mixture and achieve that iconic golden-brown crunchy topping.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement is key for balancing components like cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Oven Mitts
Safety first when handling hot bakeware straight from the oven.
- Spatula or Large Spoon
To mix and scoop the mac and cheese mixture into the baking dish without breaking the pasta.
| Equipment | Purpose | Recommended Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boil elbow macaroni | 4-quart or larger, heavy-bottom |
| Colander | Drain cooked pasta | Fine mesh or stranded design |
| Medium Saucepan | Prepare cheese sauce | Heavy-bottom, non-stick preferred |
| Whisk | Stir cheese sauce smoothly | Stainless steel, comfortable grip |
| Mixing Bowl | Combine pasta and sauce | Microwave safe, medium size |
| Baking Dish | Bake mac and cheese | Oven-safe, 8″x8″ ceramic or glass |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Measure ingredients precisely | Clear markings, durable material |
| Oven Mitts | Protect hands from burns | Heat resistant silicone |
| Spatula/Large Spoon | Mix and transfer mixture | Silicone or wooden, heat resistant |
Using these tools will help us replicate Applebee’s Mac N Cheese with ease and accuracy, bringing that creamy, cheesy masterpiece right into our kitchens.
Prep Steps
To achieve the perfect Applebee’s Mac N Cheese at home, careful preparation is essential. Let’s break down the prep stages to ensure every element shines with rich flavor and creamy texture.
Preparing the Macaroni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use about 4 quarts of water and 1 tablespoon of salt to season the pasta while cooking.
- Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking.
- Cook the macaroni for 7-8 minutes, or until al dente. The pasta should be tender but still firm to the bite to hold up well in the cheese sauce.
- Drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse, as the starches help the cheese sauce cling to the noodles.
| Step | Details | Time/Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Salted, boiling | 4 quarts + 1 tbsp salt |
| Pasta | Elbow macaroni | 2 cups |
| Cooking Time | Al dente | 7-8 minutes |
| Draining | No rinsing | Immediate |
Making the Cheese Sauce
- Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it foams but doesn’t brown.
- Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes until it turns slightly golden to eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Gradually add 2 ½ cups of whole milk, whisking constantly to maintain a smooth texture.
- Continue whisking and cook the mixture until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. This is your béchamel base.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheese blend:
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is silky and velvety.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or mustard powder to enhance flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning accordingly.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 3 tbsp | Roux base |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tbsp | Thickener for sauce |
| Whole milk | 2 ½ cups | Liquid for sauce |
| Sharp cheddar | 1 ½ cups shredded | Sharp flavor base |
| Mozzarella | 1 cup shredded | Gooey texture |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz | Creaminess and richness |
Directions
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process to make Applebee’s Mac N Cheese right in our kitchen. Follow these stages carefully to achieve that creamy, cheesy perfection with a golden crispy topping.
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. The pasta should be tender but still firm to the bite.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, reserving a small cup of the pasta water.
Tip: Avoid overcooking to maintain the ideal texture for our mac and cheese.
Preparing the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter.
- Gradually whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to form a smooth roux. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Slowly add 3 cups of whole milk while whisking to avoid lumps and create a velvety béchamel sauce.
- Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Lower the heat. Stir in the cheese blend:
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon paprika for that subtle smoky depth.
- Stir until all cheeses melt completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 4 tbsp |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Whole milk | 3 cups |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 1 1/2 cups |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Cream cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Paprika | 1/4 tsp |
Combining Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni and the cheese sauce.
- Gently fold to coat every piece of pasta thoroughly with the creamy sauce.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water to loosen it slightly.
“The key to that luxuriously creamy texture is coating every piece of macaroni evenly.”
Adding Toppings
- Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into an oven-safe baking dish (about 9×13 inches).
- In a small bowl, mix 1 cup panko bread crumbs with 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- Evenly sprinkle this topping over the mac and cheese. This will give us a golden, crunchy crust after baking.
Baking the Mac N Cheese
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
- For an extra crispy topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes while keeping a close watch to avoid burning.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro tip: Letting the dish rest helps the mac and cheese set so each serving holds its shape perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Applebee’s Mac N Cheese experience, we recommend pairing it with complementary dishes and thoughtful plating to balance richness and enhance flavor.
Pairing Ideas
- Grilled or Pan-Seared Chicken: The mild, savory flavor of chicken complements the creamy cheese sauce perfectly without overpowering it.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a crisp, fresh element and vibrant color contrast.
- Crispy Bacon or Sausage: For extra indulgence, sprinkle crumbled bacon on top or serve sausage links on the side to add smoky, savory notes.
- Fresh Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the mac and cheese.
Beverage Suggestions
- White Wine: A chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc offers a fruity acidity that pairs beautifully with creamy dishes.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: Non-alcoholic options that provide a refreshing, citrusy balance.
- Craft Beer: Choose a light lager or pale ale to complement the comfort food without overwhelming the flavors.
Presentation Tips
- Serve mac and cheese hot and fresh out of the oven for the ideal gooey texture.
- Use a shallow, wide dish to showcase the golden crispy panko topping.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for color and subtle herbaceous notes.
- Consider individual ramekins for personal servings to make the dish feel special and restaurant-inspired.
| Serving Component | Recommended Options | Purpose/Contrast |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | Grilled chicken, crispy bacon, sausage | Adds savory, meaty flavor and textural variety |
| Vegetables | Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus | Provides freshness and balances creaminess |
| Salad | Mixed greens with vinaigrette | Offers acidity and lightness |
| Beverage | Chardonnay, iced tea, pale ale | Complements and refreshes palate |
Final Tip
Let’s remember to serve the mac and cheese immediately to retain that signature creamy and crispy texture that Applebee’s Mac N Cheese is famous for. Reheat gently if needed to avoid drying out the sauce or topping.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To enjoy our Applebee’s Mac N Cheese without the last-minute rush, we can prepare it ahead of time by following a few simple steps. This ensures the creamy texture and crispy topping stay intact when baked fresh.
Step 1: Assemble the Mac and Cheese
After cooking the elbow macaroni al dente and preparing the velvety cheese sauce with the blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese, combine them thoroughly in the oven-safe baking dish. Add the panko breadcrumb topping mixed with shredded cheddar, but do not bake yet.
Step 2: Cover and Refrigerate
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to prevent moisture loss and absorb flavors from other foods in the fridge. Place the dish in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keeping it chilled slows bacterial growth while allowing flavors to meld.
Step 3: Baking From Refrigerated State
When ready to serve, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and place the dish uncovered on the middle rack. To maintain the famous creamy interior and crispy topping, bake for:
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time (From Refrigerated) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 30–35 minutes | Cheese sauce bubbles and crust browns evenly |
Monitor the top closely after 25 minutes to avoid burning the panko topping.
Step 4: Rest Before Serving
Once baked, let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes. This step allows the cheese sauce to thicken slightly and helps each serving hold its shape for a presentation that matches Applebee’s signature classic.
“The key to perfect make-ahead mac and cheese is baking straight from the fridge without freezing, preserving its creamy texture and mouthwatering crust.”
With these make-ahead instructions, we can savor Applebee’s Mac N Cheese any night while minimizing prep time and maximizing flavor impact.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing and reheating Applebee’s Mac N Cheese properly ensures we enjoy its rich, creamy flavor and crispy topping even days after making it. Here are our top tips to keep the dish tasting fresh and delicious:
Storage Guidelines
- Cool Completely: Let the mac and cheese cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the topping soggy.
- Use an Airtight Container: Transfer leftovers into airtight containers to preserve flavor and moisture.
- Refrigeration Time: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days to maintain optimal freshness.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, wrap the mac and cheese tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (airtight) | 3 to 4 days | Cool completely before storing |
| Freezer (wrapped well) | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight in refrigerator |
Reheating Instructions
To bring back that perfect creamy texture and crispy topping, follow these reheating methods:
Oven Method (Recommended)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish. If stored frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge beforehand.
- Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the top from burning while allowing steam to circulate.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes if refrigerated or 30-35 minutes if thawed from frozen.
- Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking to re-crisp the panko topping.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to thicken.
Stovetop Method
- Place leftover mac and cheese in a skillet over low heat.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Stir gently to prevent sticking and heat evenly until warmed through.
- Avoid high heat to prevent burning and maintain creaminess.
Pro Tip: Avoid microwaving when possible as it tends to make the topping soggy and the sauce unevenly heated. If microwaving is the only option, cover the dish loosely and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between.
By following these Storage and Reheating Tips, we ensure every bite of our homemade Applebee’s Mac N Cheese remains comforting, cheesy, and absolutely delicious.
Conclusion
Making Applebee’s Mac N Cheese at home brings that perfect blend of creamy, cheesy comfort right to our table. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, we can enjoy a dish that rivals the restaurant’s version anytime we want.
Whether it’s a cozy night in or a family gathering, this recipe offers a satisfying experience that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Let’s keep this classic comfort food on our menu and savor every cheesy bite together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Applebee’s mac and cheese special?
Applebee’s mac and cheese is known for its creamy, velvety cheese sauce made from a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese, paired with elbow macaroni and a crispy panko breadcrumb topping for a perfect texture balance.
Can I make Applebee’s mac and cheese at home?
Yes, you can recreate Applebee’s mac and cheese at home using the right ingredients, tools, and recipe steps to achieve the same creamy, cheesy flavor and crispy top.
What ingredients do I need to make Applebee’s mac and cheese?
Key ingredients include elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella, cream cheese, butter, flour, whole milk, panko breadcrumbs, and seasoning.
What kitchen tools are essential for this recipe?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, colander, medium saucepan, whisk, mixing bowl, baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, oven mitts, and a spatula or large spoon.
How do I ensure the pasta is cooked perfectly?
Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (firm to bite), then drain immediately to prevent overcooking.
What is the best way to make the cheese sauce?
Start with a roux of butter and flour, gradually whisk in milk to form a béchamel, then stir in the cheese blend until smooth and creamy.
How do I get the crispy topping on Applebee’s mac and cheese?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with extra cheddar cheese and sprinkle over the top before baking to achieve a golden, crunchy crust.
Can I prepare Applebee’s mac and cheese in advance?
Yes, you can assemble it ahead, cover tightly, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake just before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Cool completely and store in airtight containers. Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to reheat Applebee’s mac and cheese?
Oven reheating is best to keep it creamy and crispy. A stovetop method works too. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dish soggy.
What can I serve with Applebee’s mac and cheese?
Popular pairings include grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, crispy bacon, sausage, fresh salad, and beverages like white wine, iced tea, or lemonade.