Easy Copycat Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe

There’s nothing quite like indulging in the creamy decadence of a homemade mac and cheese that rivals the beloved Chick-fil-A version. This easy copycat recipe is perfect for capturing the rich, comforting flavors that this classic dish offers, making it a must-try for mac and cheese enthusiasts.

I remember the first time I tried making this at home for my family, eager to recreate that special magic we experienced at the restaurant. Our home was filled with the inviting aroma of cheese, and when we finally took that first bite, it was as if we were transported back to our favorite booth at Chick-fil-A. My son even exclaimed, “Mom, this tastes just like the real thing!” It has now become a family staple at our dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly simple to make, requiring only a few steps to achieve its signature rich and creamy texture. Its blend of cheeses creates a perfect harmony of flavors. The homemade aspect means you can tweak the seasoning to your liking, resulting in a personalized comfort dish. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring a bit of that restaurant magic right to your home dining table.

Ingredients Notes

The key to this delightful dish is using a variety of cheeses for depth of flavor. Consider sourcing fresh blocks of cheese and grating them yourself for the best melt. If you’re out of heavy cream, a mixture of milk and butter can serve as a substitution. Don’t forget to season with a pinch of white pepper to enhance the taste.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. This ensures the pasta maintains its structure when combined with the cheese sauce.

Step 2

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter and flour to create a roux. Stir constantly until it turns a pale gold, ensuring it doesn’t brown too much.

Step 3

Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Keep whisking to avoid any lumps forming.

Step 4

Add the cheese gradually, whisking until all cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Ensure each addition is fully melted before adding more cheese.

Step 5

Combine the drained pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat the macaroni evenly. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese if desired.

Storage Options

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to five days. For reheating, add a splash of milk before microwaving to retain creaminess. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it’s thawed in the fridge before reheating.

Variations & Substitutions

For a spicy twist, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce. Those following a gluten-free diet can use gluten-free pasta and a suitable flour alternative for the roux. For a more protein-heavy dish, mix in cooked chicken pieces before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This mac and cheese is perfect as a main dish on a cozy weeknight dinner or as an indulgent side for picnics and barbecue parties. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the rich flavors for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded cheese? While it’s convenient, pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly as freshly grated cheese. For a creamier result, it’s best to shred your own.

How do I prevent my cheese sauce from becoming grainy? Ensure you melt the cheese slowly over low heat. High heat can cause the cheese to seize up, leading to a grainy texture. Consistent whisking during melting helps maintain a smooth sauce.

What types of cheese work best? A blend of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan provides both flavor and a smooth, creamy texture, but feel free to experiment with your favorites or what’s available.

Easy Copycat Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe

This easy-to-make copycat version of Chick-fil-A's famous Mac and Cheese brings creamy, cheesy goodness right to your kitchen. Perfect as a main dish or a comforting side!

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 8 oz elbow macaroni
• ▢ 2 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
• ▢ 0.5 cup Colby-Jack cheese shredded
• ▢ 0.5 cup American cheese cubed
• ▢ 2 tbsp butter unsalted
• ▢ 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ▢ 2 cup milk whole
• ▢ 0.5 tsp mustard powder
• ▢ 1 tsp salt or to taste
• ▢ 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
• ▢ 0.25 tsp paprika optional, for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
• Gradually whisk in the milk, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
• Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cheddar, Colby-Jack, and American cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
• Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
• Serve hot, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of paprika.

Notes

For an extra cheesy crust, place the mac and cheese under the broiler for a couple of minutes before serving.