The classic combo appetizer at Applebee’s is a fan favorite that offers a tasty sampling of some of the restaurant’s most popular appetizers. This sharing platter features a variety of appetizers including mozzarella sticks, onion rings, potato skins, chicken tenders, and spinach and artichoke dip.
What are the ingredients in the classic combo appetizer?
The classic combo appetizer contains the following appetizers and ingredients:
- Mozzarella sticks – Mozzarella cheese coated in a crispy breading and served with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Onion rings – Sliced onions coated in a crispy beer batter.
- Potato skins – Potato halves loaded with cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions.
- Chicken tenders – Chicken breast fillets coated in a crispy seasoned breading.
- Spinach and artichoke dip – A creamy blend of spinach, artichokes, Parmesan, mozzarella and Asiago cheeses. Served warm with tortilla chips and salsa.
So in summary, the classic combo features crispy fried items like mozzarella sticks, onion rings, and chicken tenders along with cheesy dips and loaded potato skins. It offers a nice sampler of flavors and textures perfect for sharing.
What are the calories in each appetizer item?
Here is a breakdown of the approximate calories count for each appetizer on the classic combo platter:
- Mozzarella sticks (4 pieces) – 430 calories
- Onion rings (5 rings) – 270 calories
- Potato skins (4 halves) – 500 calories
- Chicken tenders (4 pieces) – 520 calories
- Spinach and artichoke dip (4 oz) – 440 calories
So in total, the classic combo appetizer platter contains around 2160 calories. However, this can vary slightly depending on the exact portion sizes provided.
What are the different dipping sauces served with the classic combo appetizer?
The classic combo appetizer comes with two dipping sauces:
- Marinara sauce – A tangy tomato-based sauce served with the mozzarella sticks for dipping.
- Ranch dressing – A creamy buttermilk ranch dressing that pairs nicely with the onion rings, potato skins and chicken tenders for dipping.
The spinach and artichoke dip is already a creamy dip itself, served warm with tortilla chips.
What drinks pair well with the classic combo appetizer?
Here are some suggested drink pairings for the classic combo appetizer:
- Beer – A light beer or lager pairs nicely with fried appetizers like mozzarella sticks and onion rings.
- Cocktails – A margarita, mai tai or daiquiri can complement the appetizers’ flavors.
- Wine – For a wine pairing, try a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Soft Drinks – Classic soft drinks like Coke, Sprite or lemonade taste great with these appetizers.
- Iced Tea – An icy cold unsweetened or sweet tea also makes a fine pairing.
What are some tips for ordering the classic combo appetizer?
Here are some helpful tips when ordering the classic combo appetizer at Applebee’s:
- Share with the table – The classic combo is meant to be shared family-style as it includes 5 generous portions of appetizers.
- Request extra dipping sauces – Ask your server for extra marinara and ranch, as the appetizers can go through them quickly.
- Substitute items – You can substitute 1 or 2 items for something else on the appetizer menu if needed.
- Watch for deals – Applebee’s often runs specials taking $1-$2 off the combo appetizer price, so keep an eye out.
- Add grilled chicken – You can add grilled chicken to the potato skins for extra protein.
- Mind the calories – While delicious, the combo packs a calorie punch so share wisely if watching your intake.
How is the classic combo appetizer presented?
The classic combo appetizer is served family-style on a large oval platter. The mozzarella sticks, onion rings, potato skins, chicken tenders, and spinach artichoke dip each get their own sections. The marinara and ranch dipping sauces are served in small ramikins on the side. The different items are neatly arranged around the platter, often with the potato skins and chicken tenders in the middle and other items fanned around the edges. A garnish of parsley adds some color to the platter.
The presentation makes it easy to access and share each item. It’s an appetizing spread of crowd-pleasing appetizers ideal for a group to pass around and sample.
| Appetizer Item | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Mozzarella Sticks (4 pieces) | 430 |
| Onion Rings (5 rings) | 270 |
| Potato Skins (4 halves) | 500 |
| Chicken Tenders (4 pieces) | 520 |
| Spinach Artichoke Dip (4 oz) | 440 |
| Total Calories | 2160 |
Conclusion
The classic combo appetizer platter at Applebee’s provides an indulgent sampler of all your fried favorites. Featuring popular appetizers like mozzarella sticks, chicken tenders, onion rings and more, it’s the perfect way to kick off a meal with friends and family. While high in calories, splitting this hearty appetizer combo enables everyone to get a taste of these iconic starters. Paired with drinks like beer, wine or cocktails, it’s an ideal way to whet your appetite in true Applebee’s style.