Name: Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup elbow macaroni; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 2 cups whole milk; 4 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving that creamy, dreamy comfort food that melts in your mouth, then you simply have to try Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese. This dish is a luscious blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses enveloping tender elbow macaroni in a silky, buttery sauce. Perfectly balanced with a hint of seasoning, it captures the heartwarming essence of a homemade classic without any fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just indulging in some self-care, Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese hits all the right notes, bringing smile-worthy satisfaction with every bite.

Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Preparing Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese is delightfully straightforward, relying on a handful of simple but essential ingredients that come together to create that rich, velvety texture and bold cheese flavor that you’ll adore. Each component plays a crucial role, from the pasta’s shape to the quality of the cheese, making this recipe both easy and incredibly rewarding.

Elbow macaroni (1 cup): The perfect pasta shape to hold onto every bit of creamy cheese sauce.
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (1 cup): Adds a classic tangy richness that defines traditional mac and cheese.
Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (1 cup): Brings a creamy, mild meltiness that complements the sharper cheddar.
Whole milk (2 cups): Gives the sauce its luscious, creamy base and smooth texture.
Butter (4 tablespoons): Essential for creating that silky roux and buttery depth of flavor.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the sauce so it clings beautifully to the noodles.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but effective seasonings that enhance all the layers of flavor.

How to Make Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Elbow Macaroni

Start by boiling your elbow macaroni in salted water until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—just tender with a slight bite. This ensures that when combined with the creamy cheese sauce, the pasta holds its shape and adds that satisfying chew that every mac and cheese lover craves. Once done, drain it carefully and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter slowly to avoid browning. Stir in the flour and keep cooking for about two minutes until the mixture turns a delicate golden color. This simple roux is your secret weapon for a sauce that’s thick, velvety, and coats every macaroni perfectly without being gloopy or thin.

Step 3: Whisk in the Milk and Thicken the Sauce

Gradually add the milk to your roux, whisking continuously so no lumps form. Patience is key here—stir it gently over medium heat for around 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens just enough to beautifully cling to your pasta in the next step. Keep an eye on it, and don’t rush this comforting transformation.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses

Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. The residual warmth melts the cheeses into a truly luscious sauce that’s rich, smooth, and packed with flavor. Season it with salt and pepper to balance out the creaminess and let your taste buds rejoice!

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Pour the cheese sauce over your cooked elbow macaroni and stir gently to coat every noodle in a decadent blanket of cheesy goodness. This is the heart of Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese, where buttery sauce meets tender pasta in a match made for the soul.

Step 6: Optional Crispy Top

If you’re in the mood for a little extra texture and that irresistible golden crust, transfer your mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Then bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and beautifully browned on top. This finishing touch takes Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese to restaurant-level indulgence right in your own kitchen.

How to Serve Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate your Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese to show-stopping levels. Try adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives for a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the rich cheese. If you like a little extra kick, a dusting of smoked paprika or a handful of toasted breadcrumbs works wonders to create a stunning visual and textural finish.

Side Dishes

This mac and cheese is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly, while roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts bring a toasty, earthy note. For a classic combo, add some juicy grilled chicken or crispy bacon on the side to round out a comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, serve Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese in mini cast iron skillets or individual ramekins for charming, personalized portions. For a fun twist, top each serving with a fried onion ring or a drizzle of hot sauce to bring vibrant flavor contrasts. This dish is all about making comfort food exciting and approachable, so get creative!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When stored properly, it maintains its creamy texture and flavor, so you can enjoy a quick, delicious meal the next day without any hassle.

Freezing

If you want to prepare Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese in advance, freezing is a great option. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember that cheesy baked casseroles may lose some crispiness after freezing, but the comforting taste remains wonderful.

Reheating

Reheat your mac and cheese gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to bring back the creamy consistency. If you’ve baked it with a crispy top, reheating in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes restores that delicious golden crust and ensures an even temperature throughout.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese for Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack give that perfect balance of tang and creaminess, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a fun twist on the classic flavor.

Is whole milk necessary, or can I use a lower fat milk?

Whole milk provides the richest, creamiest sauce, but you can use 2% milk if you prefer a lighter option. Just be aware the sauce may be slightly less velvety, though still delicious.

How can I make the crispy topping without baking?

If you want a crispy topping without the oven, try sprinkling toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the mac and cheese and briefly broiling it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Can I make Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese vegan or dairy-free?

To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with plant-based margarine, use unsweetened almond or oat milk, and replace the cheese with vegan cheese alternatives that melt well. The texture and flavor will be different but still comforting.

What’s the best pasta to use if I don’t have elbow macaroni?

If elbow macaroni isn’t available, small pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or mini penne also work wonderfully because they hold onto the cheese sauce well.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably joyful about diving into a bowl of Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese — it’s like wrapping yourself in a warm, cheesy hug. This recipe is a fantastic way to bring a bit of that legendary comfort food magic to your own kitchen with ease and confidence. So next time you want a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish, give it a try and watch firsthand why Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese has earned its place as a beloved classic.

Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 21 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Chick-fil-A inspired mac and cheese recipe offers a creamy and cheesy comfort food experience with a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. It features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, homemade cheese sauce made from scratch, with an optional baked crispy topping for added texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

1 cup elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture turns a light golden color, forming a roux.
Add Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Melt Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Macaroni and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta evenly.
Optional Bake: For a crispier top, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and texture.
For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with 2% milk or a milk alternative, but the cheese sauce will be slightly less rich.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
The optional baking step adds a crunchy top but is not necessary for creamy mac and cheese.
Use elbow macaroni or any small pasta shape you prefer for best results.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop and Optional Baking
Cuisine: American