Clark Howard

Applebee's just announced a major change to its menu

Applebee's is hoping that a new limited-time menu will help the struggling casual restaurant chain reverse a sales slump.

In May, the company reported a 7.9% drop in comparable same-restaurant sales for first quarter of 2017. Applebee’s new president John Cywinski said he was working on a plan to increase sales and foot traffic.

At the time, Cywinski acknowledged that some of Applebee’s struggles were self-inflicted.

Read more: Applebee’s says these 3 mistakes drove loyal customers away

Applebee’s introduces Topped & Loaded menu

Now, Applebee's has unveiled the Topped & Loaded menu. Starting at $10.99, the customizable lineup features four protein choices, three toppers and four side options.

Customers build their meal by following these three steps:

1. Pick a protein base

  • Chicken breast
  • Bone-in pork chop
  • 6-ounce USDA Choice top sirloin
  • 8-ounce USDA Choice top sirloin

2. Pick a topper

  • Marinara Mozzarella Stick Topper, consisting of crispy mozzarella sticks, classic marinara sauce and parmesan cream sauce
  • Bacon Beer Cheese Topper, made of beer cheese, bacon, crispy onions and fresh green onions
  • Cajun Shrimp Topper, including blackened shrimp, sauteed onions and savory lemon butter

3.  Pick two sides

  • Garlicky green beans with bacon
  • Steamed broccoli
  • Classic fries
  • Garlic mashed potatoes

If you're having trouble visualizing what these meals may look like, here's a look at some of the Topped & Loaded menu combinations. Let us know what you think on Facebook and Twitter!

Chicken breast topped with mozzarella sticks

Sirloin topped with shrimp

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