Applebee’s Brings Back the Big Easy Menu with Bold New Orleans Flavor
It’s back, and it’s bolder than ever. Applebee’s is once again transporting guests straight to the vibrant streets of New Orleans with the highly anticipated return of its Big Easy Menu. Starting at just $11.99 for a limited time, this fan-favorite lineup celebrates the rich, soulful flavors of the Bayou while introducing two exciting new Cajun-inspired dishes: the NEW Big Easy Burger and the NEW Bayou Shrimp Bowl. Alongside these new additions, the beloved Bourbon Street Chicken & Andouille Sausage Penne also makes a triumphant return, delivering comforting, flavor-packed satisfaction at an unbeatable value.
Designed to bring the energy and culinary spirit of Bourbon Street to neighborhoods nationwide, the Big Easy Menu blends bold spices, smoky meats, savory sauces, and hearty portions. Whether guests are dining in with friends or ordering to go, the limited-time menu offers an accessible way to experience classic Cajun flavors without leaving town.
Two New Cajun-Inspired Dishes Take Center Stage
Leading the excitement this season are two brand-new menu items that showcase the depth and vibrancy of Louisiana-inspired cuisine.
The NEW Bayou Shrimp Bowl delivers a true taste of the South in every bite. Featuring perfectly blackened shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices, the dish is layered with smoky Andouille sausage, fluffy Spanish rice, garlicky green beans, and sautéed bell peppers and onions. Each component brings its own texture and flavor, from the subtle heat of the shrimp to the savory richness of the sausage. The bowl is finished with a side of creamy Cajun sauce, allowing guests to customize each bite with an extra kick of indulgent spice and smoothness. The result is a hearty, balanced dish that feels both comforting and adventurous.
Equally impressive is the NEW Big Easy Burger, a bold reimagination of the classic American burger infused with unmistakable Cajun flair. Built on a juicy all-beef patty, this towering creation features melted Pepper Jack cheese for a touch of heat, grilled Andouille sausage for smoky depth, crisp and zesty citrus slaw for brightness, and spicy honey mustard that ties everything together with sweet heat. All of this is served on a soft brioche bun and accompanied by classic fries. The combination of textures and flavors creates a burger experience that is anything but ordinary, delivering Southern-inspired excitement in every bite.
The Return of a Comfort Food Classic
Joining the new menu items is the savory Bourbon Street Chicken & Andouille Sausage Penne, a returning guest favorite that continues to win over diners seeking bold comfort food. This dish features juicy Bourbon Street chicken paired with seared slices of Andouille sausage, seasoned bell peppers, and onions. Everything is tossed in a rich, creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce and served over tender penne pasta.
The balance between smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and perfectly seasoned chicken makes this entrée both satisfying and indulgent. It captures the spirit of New Orleans cuisine—hearty, flavorful, and full of personality—while remaining approachable for guests who crave familiar comfort dishes with a Cajun twist.
Fan-Favorite Bourbon Street Classics Still Shine
In addition to the new and returning highlights, the Big Easy Menu continues to showcase some of Applebee’s most popular Bourbon Street-inspired dishes.
The Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp Skillet remains a go-to for guests who love surf-and-turf combinations. The Bourbon Street Steak offers a satisfying option for steak lovers seeking bold seasoning and Southern flair. Meanwhile, the Bourbon Street Mushroom Swiss Burger delivers a savory blend of mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese layered over a juicy burger patty.
Together, these menu staples round out the Big Easy experience, giving guests a variety of choices that reflect the smoky, spicy, and savory hallmarks of Cajun cooking. Whether diners prefer seafood, steak, chicken, pasta, or burgers, the lineup ensures there’s something to satisfy every craving.
A Celebration of Bold, Southern-Inspired Flavors
According to Michelle Chin, Chief Marketing Officer at Applebee’s, the return of the Big Easy Menu comes in response to strong guest enthusiasm for the brand’s Bourbon Street offerings. Guests have consistently embraced these flavor-forward dishes, making the menu’s comeback a natural choice.
Chin emphasized that the new additions bring even more excitement to the lineup, offering delicious Cajun-inspired creations that capture the bold, vibrant essence of New Orleans. With smoky Andouille sausage, blackened shrimp, creamy sauces, and carefully layered seasonings, the Big Easy Menu is designed to transport diners to Bourbon Street with every bite.
The emphasis on boldness is key. Cajun cuisine is known for its dynamic spice blends, rich sauces, and layered textures, and Applebee’s interpretation keeps those elements front and center while maintaining the approachable, neighborhood-friendly appeal the brand is known for.
Limited-Time Value Starting at $11.99
One of the most appealing aspects of the Big Easy Menu is its accessible price point. With select dishes starting at $11.99, guests can indulge in robust, Southern-inspired flavors without stretching their budget. While prices, participation, and selection may vary by location, the value-driven approach ensures that diners can explore multiple Cajun-inspired options at a competitive price.
The limited-time availability also adds to the excitement, encouraging fans to visit soon before the menu items disappear. Seasonal and promotional menus like the Big Easy offering often generate strong repeat visits, as guests return to enjoy favorites before they’re gone.
Dine-In, To Go, and Exclusive Offers
Guests looking to experience the Big Easy Menu can visit their local Applebee’s restaurant for dine-in service and enjoy the lively, welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. For added convenience, the full lineup is also available for To Go and delivery orders through Applebee’s website and mobile app on iOS and Android devices.
In addition, guests can unlock even more savings and special promotions by joining Applebee’s E-Club. Members receive exclusive deals and a welcome offer, providing extra value beyond the limited-time menu pricing.
Bringing Bourbon Street to Neighborhoods Nationwide
With the return of the Big Easy Menu, Applebee’s continues its tradition of delivering globally inspired flavors in a familiar, accessible setting. By blending bold Cajun spices, smoky Andouille sausage, creamy sauces, and fresh ingredients, the menu captures the heart of New Orleans cuisine while keeping it approachable for everyday dining.
From the NEW Bayou Shrimp Bowl and NEW Big Easy Burger to the comforting Bourbon Street Chicken & Andouille Sausage Penne and long-standing Bourbon Street favorites, the lineup offers a dynamic mix of flavors that celebrate the spirit of the Bayou.
For guests craving smoky, spicy, and satisfying Southern-inspired dishes, the Big Easy Menu is ready to deliver a flavorful escape—no plane ticket to New Orleans required.
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