5 Steps to Copycat Applebee's Mac & Cheese Recipe

Introduction to Applebee’s Mac & Cheese

If you’re a fan of Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar and their iconic Mac & Cheese, you’ve likely wondered how to recreate this dish at home. Applebee’s Mac & Cheese isn’t just a side dish; it’s an experience with its creamy, cheesy sauce that balances richness and comfort like no other. This guide will walk you through five steps to duplicate the mac & cheese you love at Applebee’s, ensuring you can enjoy this indulgent dish whenever the craving strikes. Let’s dive into the magical world of cheese, cream, and comfort!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before we start, here’s what you’ll need:

• Macaroni: 1 pound (454 grams) of elbow macaroni or cavatappi
• Butter: 3 tablespoons (45 grams)
• Flour: 3 tablespoons (24 grams)
• Milk: 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (120 grams) shredded sharp cheddar
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup (50 grams) grated
• Gouda Cheese: ½ cup (60 grams) shredded smoked Gouda
• Salt: To taste
• Black Pepper: To taste
• Nutmeg: A pinch for that hidden flavor
• Crushed Ritz Crackers or Panko Breadcrumbs: Optional for topping
• Paprika: Optional for garnish

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Start by cooking your macaroni:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add your macaroni, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Cook until al dente, usually about 6-8 minutes (check package instructions).
4. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the cooking water, and set aside.

✨ Note: It’s important to cook the pasta al dente because it will continue to cook in the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

The heart of Applebee’s Mac & Cheese is its creamy, rich cheese sauce:

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while continuously whisking to avoid lumps.
4. Cook the mixture until it thickens, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, and Gouda, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.

🍲 Note: The key to a silky sauce is patience. Allow the sauce to thicken properly before adding the cheese.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Here’s where we blend the cooked macaroni with our sauce:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Add the cooked, drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, use some of the reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
3. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
4. If desired, sprinkle the top with crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.
5. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

🌟 Note: Using a mix of cheeses not only adds complexity to the flavor but also creates the creamy texture you’re aiming for.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To achieve the finishing touch:

• Lightly sprinkle paprika over the top for color and a touch of spice.
• Allow the mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes to set before serving.

🍴 Note: Let the mac and cheese rest for a moment to cool slightly; this helps the sauce to set and become creamier when served.

Emulating Applebee's Mac & Cheese at home is both a fun and rewarding experience. With these five steps, you've learned how to create a rich, cheesy, and indulgent dish that's perfect for any comfort food lover. While it may not be an exact replica, this homemade version captures the essence of what makes Applebee's Mac & Cheese so beloved. Experiment with different cheeses or toppings to customize it to your taste, and enjoy this creamy delight in the comfort of your own home.

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

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Absolutely, you can experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or rotini. However, these shapes may alter the texture of the dish due to their size and surface area for sauce retention.

What can I do to make the cheese sauce less rich?

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Reduce the amount of heavy cream or use milk with lower fat content. Also, adding in some sharp cheese or aged cheddar can help balance the richness with more intense flavor.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, covered with foil to prevent drying out.