The flavors of New Orleans are making a comeback at Applebee’s. The casual dining chain has revived its Big Easy menu, bringing back Cajun-inspired favorites along with a few brand-new additions. Originally launched during Mardi Gras last year, the menu celebrates the bold, spicy flavors the city is famous for. This time around, Applebee’s is adding even more Southern flair with new bowls, a loaded burger, and a cocktail inspired by a classic New Orleans drink. For fans of Cajun-style comfort food, this limited-time return brings a little Big Easy energy straight to the table.
The Big Easy Menu Returns
Applebee’s is once again embracing the flavors of New Orleans with the return of its Big Easy menu. The concept first debuted during Mardi Gras the previous year and quickly drew attention for its Cajun-inspired dishes. Now the restaurant chain is bringing it back with a refreshed lineup. Returning favorites share space with a few brand-new menu items. The goal is simple: deliver bold Southern flavors in classic Applebee’s style.
Cajun Flavors Take Center Stage
New Orleans cuisine is known for its bold spices, hearty ingredients, and rich sauces. Applebee’s Big Easy menu leans into those same qualities. The dishes highlight Cajun seasoning, smoky sausage, and vibrant vegetables. Together, these ingredients create the kind of comforting, flavorful meals associated with Louisiana cooking. It’s a menu built around big taste and satisfying portions.
A New Bowl Packed With Shrimp
One of the newest items on the menu is the Bayou Shrimp Bowl. This dish features blackened shrimp paired with smoky Andouille sausage. The seafood and sausage sit on a bed of Spanish rice, giving the bowl a hearty base. Bell peppers and onions are sautéed for extra flavor. To finish it off, the dish includes garlicky green beans and a side of creamy Cajun sauce.
The Bayou Chicken Bowl Joins the Lineup
Not everyone prefers shrimp, which is why Applebee’s added another bowl option. The Bayou Chicken Bowl swaps shrimp for Cajun-seasoned Bourbon Street chicken. Like the shrimp version, it’s served over Spanish rice. It also includes sautéed peppers, onions, and green beans. The same creamy Cajun sauce ties all the flavors together.
Meet the Big Easy Burger
Another new addition to the menu is the Big Easy Burger. This sandwich leans heavily into bold Southern flavors. The burger sits on a bed of zesty citrus slaw that adds brightness to the dish. Pepper Jack cheese and grilled Andouille sausage give it extra heat and richness. Everything is finished with spicy honey mustard and served alongside fries.
The Return of Cajun Pasta Favorites
While the new items bring fresh options, some fan favorites are also making a return. The Big Easy menu still includes Cajun-style pasta dishes that helped launch the promotion last year. Bourbon Street Chicken & Andouille Sausage Penne remains one of those options. Blackened Shrimp & Andouille Sausage Penne is also back. Both dishes continue the Cajun theme with bold seasoning and smoky sausage.
Bourbon Street Classics Stay on the Menu
Beyond the special Big Easy dishes, several Bourbon Street-inspired meals remain part of Applebee’s regular offerings. Diners can still order items like Bourbon Street Steak. Other staples include Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp. The Bourbon Street Mushroom Swiss Burger also stays on the menu. These dishes help maintain the chain’s ongoing connection to Southern-inspired flavors.
A Limited-Time Deal on the Cocktail
The Pricklycane cocktail isn’t just festive—it’s also affordable. Applebee’s is offering the drink for $6 as part of its Mucho Madness promotion. The deal gives diners a budget-friendly way to enjoy the new beverage. For fans of fruity rum cocktails, it adds another reason to try the Big Easy menu.
Expect Mid-Range Pricing
Prices for the Big Easy menu items may vary depending on location. However, many of the new dishes appear to fall within the same general range. The Bayou bowls and Big Easy Burger are expected to cost roughly $15 to $16. That keeps them in line with other casual dining entrées. It’s designed to deliver bold flavors without straying too far from Applebee’s typical pricing.
A Taste of Mardi Gras at the Table
The return of the Big Easy menu taps directly into Mardi Gras spirit. The promotion celebrates the lively food culture associated with New Orleans. Spices, seafood, and hearty ingredients all reflect that tradition. Even the cocktail lineup echoes the festive vibe of the city’s famous celebrations. Applebee’s is essentially bringing a taste of Bourbon Street to diners across the country.
Applebee’s Cajun Menu Is Back
Applebee’s Big Easy menu is once again delivering a dose of New Orleans-inspired flavor. With new bowls, a bold burger, returning Cajun pastas, and a tropical cocktail, the lineup offers plenty for fans of Southern-style cooking. The combination of smoky sausage, Cajun seasoning, and hearty ingredients gives the dishes a distinct personality. For anyone craving something a little spicier than the usual menu options, the Big Easy selections might be worth a try.
