Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

This Outback Steakhouse mac and cheese recipe is everything you love about the restaurant version—creamy, rich, and totally comforting. Whether you’re making it as a quick weeknight side or prepping it for a potluck, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

If you’re a fan of rich, creamy comfort food, this Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese recipe is a must-try! Inspired by the restaurant favorite, this dish is packed with velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta, making it the ultimate side dish or main course for any cheese lover.

It’s simple to whip up at home and perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever those cheesy cravings hit.

While you are at it, be sure to try my Copycat Recipe for Kraft Mac & Cheese, made in the Instant Pot.

If you are looking for even more easy Air Fryer Side Dish Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER WEIGHT WATCHERS RED POTATO RECIPE, LOADED NINJA FOODI POTATOES, AIR FRYER GARLIC BUTTER HASSELBACK POTATOES, and AIR FRYER SPICY FRENCH FRIES.

🧀 Why You’ll Love This Copycat Outback Mac and Cheese

✅ Creamy and cheesy with the perfect balance of flavor.

✅ Quick and easy to make with pantry staples.

✅ Tastes just like the real thing—maybe even better!

✅ Perfect for holidays, BBQs, or weeknight dinners.

✅ Easily adaptable with add-ins like bacon or jalapeños.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients combine to create a rich, creamy, and flavorful mac and cheese that you can easily prepare in your air fryer oven or air fryer basket style air fryer.

• Dry elbow or small macaroni: Classic pasta shape perfect for creamy mac dishes.
• Water: Used to cook and hydrate the pasta base.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness and velvety texture to the sauce.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Bold, tangy cheese that melts beautifully.
• Dry mustard: Enhances cheese flavor with a subtle tang.
• Salt: Brings out the natural flavors in the dish.
• Black pepper: Adds a mild kick and depth of flavor.
• Garlic powder: Gives a savory, aromatic boost to the cheese sauce.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix the macaroni, water, heavy cream, about 3/4 of the cheese, dry mustard, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to combine.

Step 2: Pour the mixture into an air fryer pan, or oven-safe casserole dish. Set the pan into the basket of the air fryer, set the air fryer temperature to 360 degrees F, air fryer setting, and set cook time for 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: When the macaroni and cheese are about halfway done cooking, stir in the rest of the cheese. Remove and let cool, slightly before serving.

Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe Tips 🧀

• Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. For the creamiest texture, shred your own cheddar.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – Cook the macaroni al dente since it will continue to soften slightly in the sauce.
• Warm the cream before adding – Slightly warming the heavy cream helps it blend more smoothly into the cheese, preventing separation or clumping.
• Stir constantly – When making the cheese sauce, stir continuously to keep the sauce silky and prevent burning.
• Add a kick – Want to spice it up? Stir in a dash of cayenne, smoked paprika, or a little hot sauce.

Storing & Reheating Instructions

• Storing 🍽️: Let the mac and cheese cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Microwave: Add a splash of milk or cream and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until hot and creamy. Stovetop: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently and adding milk as needed to restore creaminess. Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, adding a little milk if it seems dry.

What To Serve With Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese

Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese is rich and indulgent, making it a perfect pairing with lighter mains or crisp, refreshing sides. Serve it alongside grilled steak, roasted chicken, or BBQ ribs for a hearty meal.

For balance, consider adding a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. It also pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a warm dinner roll to soak up the extra cheesy goodness.

Outback Steakhouse Mac and Cheese Recipe Faqs

Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! While sharp cheddar delivers that signature flavor, you can mix in cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Colby for extra creaminess or a milder taste.

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Prepare the mac and cheese, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.

Can I bake it after cooking on the stovetop? Definitely. After cooking, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with more cheese or breadcrumbs, and broil or bake until bubbly and golden on top.

Is this recipe kid-friendly? Very much so! It’s creamy, cheesy, and not overly spiced, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Can I make it gluten-free? Yes! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free macaroni and ensure your cheese and seasonings are gluten-free as well.

More Copycat Outback Steakhouse Recipes

• Outback Steakhouse Toowoomba Steak
• Copycat Outback Steakhouse Walkabout Soup
• Outback Steakhouse Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe
• Air Fryer Outback Steakhouse Sweet Potato
• Air Fryer Copycat Outback Steakhouse Bloomin Onion

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