Steakhouse Mac & Cheese – Outback’s Creamy, Comforting Classic 2025

💲 Price and Value

Menu Item	Price
steakhouse Mac & Cheese	$5.49

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When you think of comfort food, Steakhouse Mac & Cheese from Outback Steakhouse has to be near the top of the list. With its creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s no wonder this side dish has become a fan favorite. Whether you’re pairing it with a juicy steak or ordering it as a standalone indulgence, this rich and flavorful mac & cheese delivers every time.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore everything about Outback Steakhouse Mac & Cheese using Brian Dean’s On-Page SEO Method and the Skyscraper Technique to make this the most optimized and helpful post available online.

What Is Steakhouse Mac & Cheese at Outback?

Outback’s Steakhouse Mac & Cheese is a decadent pasta dish that features cavatappi pasta smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce—often made with Velveeta, cheddar, and Gouda—and topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust. It’s served as a premium side dish and is also available in smaller portions on the kids’ menu.

Quick Overview

Feature	Detail
Price	$5.49
Calories	720 kcal
Main Ingredients	Cavatappi pasta, cheese sauce, breadcrumb topping
Texture	Creamy and crunchy
Customizable	Yes
Allergens	Milk, Gluten

Why It’s a Fan Favorite

What makes this mac & cheese stand out is the layered texture and rich flavor. Here’s what sets it apart:

A blend of cheeses for depth and creaminess
Cavatappi pasta that holds the sauce well
A crispy breadcrumb topping for texture contrast
Can be customized with meats and vegetables

It’s not just for kids—adults love it too for its gourmet twist on a classic dish.

Full Nutrition Breakdown

Let’s break down the nutrition facts of a single serving:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	720 kcal
Total Fat	37g
Saturated Fat	23g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	90mg
Sodium	1420mg
Total Carbohydrates	74g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	4g
Protein	25g

It’s a rich dish, best enjoyed as a treat or occasional indulgence.

Ingredients Breakdown

Outback’s Steakhouse Mac & Cheese includes:

Cavatappi, penne, or elbow macaroni – Short pasta that grabs onto sauce
Velveeta or processed cheese – Ensures a smooth, creamy finish
Heavy cream or half-and-half – Rich and indulgent base
Butter and flour – Used to create a roux for the sauce
Salt and paprika – For seasoning
Breadcrumbs – Adds a satisfying crunch on top

Pro Tip: The paprika adds a subtle smokiness, setting this dish apart from others.

Customization Options

Want to Make It Your Own? Outback offers several add-ons to enhance the dish:

Available Upgrades

Upgrade	Details
Grilled Chicken	Adds lean protein
Shrimp	Perfect for seafood lovers
Lobster	Turns the dish into a surf & turf delight
Extra Cheese	Make it even cheesier
Bacon Bits	For added crunch and smokiness

Popular Sauce Pairings

Sauce	Flavor Profile
Ranch	Creamy and herby
BBQ	Sweet and smoky
Buffalo	Adds a spicy kick

Ideal Pairings

Wondering what to pair with your mac & cheese? Here are top entrées that go great with it:

Outback Special Sirloin
Ribs & Chicken Platter
Grilled Salmon
Alice Springs Chicken®

And don’t forget a cold beer or Chardonnay to balance the richness.

How to Order

You can enjoy this creamy comfort food by:

Dining in at Outback
Ordering takeout via their official website or app
Using delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Grubhub

How to Make a Copycat Version at Home

Want to bring Outback’s cheesy goodness to your kitchen? Try this easy copycat recipe.

Ingredients

2 cups cavatappi or elbow macaroni
1 cup Velveeta or cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Gouda
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour
Salt, pepper, paprika to taste
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (toasted)

Directions

Cook pasta according to package instructions.
In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux.
Add cream slowly, stirring constantly.
Add cheeses, stir until melted and smooth.
Mix in cooked pasta.
Pour into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs.
Bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden.

Comparison with Other Outback Sides

Side Dish	Calories	Protein	Texture
Steakhouse Mac & Cheese	720	25g	Creamy + crunchy
Seasoned Rice	320	7g	Light + fluffy
Aussie Fries	480	5g	Crispy
Loaded Mashed Potatoes	320	6g	Smooth + hearty

Mac & Cheese stands out as the richest and most indulgent.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Steakhouse Mac & Cheese spicy?

No, it’s mild and creamy, perfect for all ages.

2. Does it contain gluten?

Yes, due to the pasta and flour in the sauce.

3. Is there a gluten-free version available?

Not typically, but you could try requesting gluten-free pasta if available.

4. Is it vegetarian?

Yes, as long as no meat toppings are added.

5. Can I add protein to it?

Absolutely! Chicken, shrimp, and lobster are popular options.

6. Is it good for kids?

Yes, it’s even on the kids’ menu as Mac A Roo.

7. What kind of cheese is used?

Usually Velveeta, cheddar, and Gouda.

8. Can I reheat leftovers?

Yes, in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

9. How long does it stay good in the fridge?

Up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.

10. Is it available year-round?

Yes, it’s a permanent side dish.

11. Can I order a double portion?

Yes, most locations allow extra sides.

12. Can I make it without breadcrumbs?

Yes, just ask for it without the topping.

13. What’s the texture like?

Creamy inside with a crispy top crust.

14. Can I make it spicy?

Ask for Buffalo sauce or jalapeños on the side.

15. What makes it different from traditional mac & cheese?

The blend of cheeses, cavatappi pasta, and breadcrumb topping make it uniquely satisfying.

Final Thoughts: Is Steakhouse Mac & Cheese Worth It?

Without a doubt. Outback’s Steakhouse Mac & Cheese is the perfect comfort food side dish. It’s rich, flavorful, customizable, and pairs well with just about any entrée on the menu.

At only $5.49, it’s a fantastic way to elevate your meal, whether you’re dining in or bringing it home. And for those who love a homemade touch, the copycat version is incredibly easy and delicious.

So next time you’re at Outback, treat yourself—order the Steakhouse Mac & Cheese and taste why it’s one of their most loved sides.