Looking to elevate your sipping game and add a dash of zest to your day? Well, say hello to the Applebee’s Margarita – the kind of Mexican marvel that turns any occasion into a fiesta.

From its premium ingredients to a twist that’ll make you raise an eyebrow (or two), this isn’t your average margarita adventure.

Jump to:

Why you’ll love this Applebee’s Margarita recipe
What ingredients do you need?
Variations and customizations
What to serve with an Applebees Margarita
Applebee’s Margarita

So, if you’re all about that good vibes and great drinks combo, buckle up as we dive into what makes this margarita truly perfect.

Why you’ll love this Applebee’s Margarita recipe

Top-Shelf Upgrade: This isn’t your run-of-the-mill margarita – Applebee’s takes things up a notch by using 1800 Reposado tequila, a tequila known for its smoothness and complexity. Mixed with the citrusy punch of Contreau and the sophisticated flair of Grand Marnier, you’ve got a trio of premium spirits that harmonize to create an exceptional cocktail experience.
Balanced Bliss: With just the right combination of flavors, the Perfect Margarita strikes the ideal balance between sweet and tangy. Fresh lime juice provides that zesty kick, while the simple syrup and sweet and sour mix play a duet of delightful sweetness. The result? A taste that’s not too sugary, not too tart – just perfectly pleasurable on the palate.
Distinctive Garnish: Ever thought of pairing an olive with your margarita? Applebee’s sure has, and it’s a quirky touch that sets their recipe apart. As you raise that glass to your lips, you’ll catch a whiff of olives, adding a unique aromatic twist that surprises and delights the senses. Plus, a slice of lime on the side keeps things refreshingly classic.

So whether you’re lounging after a long day or celebrating with your buddies, Applebee’s Margarita is your ticket to a sip of top-tier refreshment that’s got the neighborhood charm and premium flair all in one. Cheers to upgrading your margarita game! 🍻🍹

What ingredients do you need?

1800 Reposado Tequila: This tequila is the heart and soul of the cocktail, delivering a rich and complex character. Reposado refers to its aging process – it’s rested in oak barrels, which imparts a smooth, mellow flavor with hints of vanilla and caramel. This top-shelf tequila adds a sophisticated depth to the drink.
Contreau: A vital component of any classic margarita, Contreau is a premium orange liqueur that brings a bright, citrusy sweetness to the mix. Made from the peel of sweet and bitter oranges, it adds a zesty kick and rounds out the flavors with a touch of elegance.
Grand Marnier: This is another orange-flavored liqueur, but with a luxurious twist. Grand Marnier combines aged cognac with bitter orange essence, resulting in a complex and smooth spirit that lends a refined orange aroma and a subtle warmth to the cocktail.
Simple Syrup: As the name suggests, simple syrup is a basic mixture of sugar and water. It’s a key player in achieving the cocktail’s balanced sweetness. This sweetener dissolves seamlessly into the mix, ensuring that the sweetness is evenly distributed without any grittiness.
Fresh Lime Juice: The backbone of any margarita, fresh lime juice provides that tangy, zingy flavor that’s essential to the drink’s signature taste. It’s the perfect counterpoint to the sweetness, adding a bright and refreshing element to the mix.
Sweet and Sour Mix: This pre-mixed concoction combines sweet and tart flavors, typically containing ingredients like lemon juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. It’s the bridge between the sour notes of the citrus juices and the sweetness from the other components, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.
Olive and Lime Slice Garnish: Now, here’s the unexpected twist that sets Applebee’s Perfect Margarita apart. A green olive garnish adds a unique aromatic touch, infusing the drink with a hint of briny intrigue. The lime slice garnish serves as a classic nod, offering a burst of fresh citrus aroma as you take that first sip.

Variations and customizations

Tropical Twist Margarita:

Swap out the traditional lime juice for a blend of fresh pineapple and mango juices.
Introduce a coconut-infused tequila for a tropical touch.
Replace the olive garnish with a skewer of pineapple chunks and a sprig of mint.

Spicy Citrus Margarita:

Infuse the tequila with jalapeño slices for a spicy kick.
Use a mix of orange liqueurs, such as Contreau and a spicy orange liqueur, to enhance the heat.
Rim the glass with a mixture of salt, chili powder, and lime zest for a fiery-sweet contrast.

What to serve with an Applebees Margarita

These are some delectable food pairing options to serve alongside Applebee’s Perfect Margarita:

Classic Guacamole and Chips: The creamy richness of guacamole paired with crisp tortilla chips makes for a perfect match. The margarita’s citrusy notes complement the avocado’s flavors while providing a refreshing contrast.
Street-Style Tacos: Serve an assortment of street-style tacos filled with options like grilled chicken, marinated carne asada, or flavorful vegetarian fillings. The margarita’s zesty kick will harmonize wonderfully with the savory, tender bites.
Quesadillas: Whether it’s cheese-filled or loaded with veggies and beans, quesadillas offer a comforting and cheesy companion to the margarita. The cocktail’s depth of flavors complements the gooey goodness of melted cheese.
Ceviche: A seafood ceviche bursting with fresh flavors, tangy citrus, and herbs is a light and refreshing choice. The margarita’s acidity will enhance the vibrant flavors of the dish.
Spicy Salsa and Fresh Sliced Veggies: Set out an array of spicy salsas and fresh vegetable sticks like cucumber, bell peppers, and jicama. The margarita’s coolness can balance out the heat of the salsa while providing a palate-cleansing effect.
Fried Plantains: The sweet and savory notes of fried plantains complement the margarita’s complexity. Serve them as a side or appetizer for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Chili-Lime Grilled Shrimp: Grilled shrimp with a chili-lime marinade offers a succulent and slightly spicy option. The margarita’s citrusy character will enhance the shrimp’s tangy and smoky profile.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Roasted or grilled corn slathered in creamy mayo, crumbled cheese, and chili powder is a decadent and satisfying choice. The margarita’s refreshing elements can cleanse the palate between bites.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of fresh fruits like watermelon, pineapple, mango, and berries provides a light and juicy accompaniment. The margarita’s fruit-forward profile resonates with the vibrant fruit flavors.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal on a sweet note with crispy churros served with a luscious chocolate dipping sauce. The margarita’s well-rounded flavors offer a harmonious contrast to the dessert’s sweetness.

These pairing options are designed to enhance your tasting experience, allowing the flavors of the Perfect Margarita to shine while complementing a variety of dishes.

Mix and match to create a memorable culinary journey for your taste buds. Cheers and bon appétit!