Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that combines sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with tender elbow macaroni. This easy recipe brings the beloved flavors of the restaurant classic right to your home kitchen.
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 and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until golden to create a roux.
- Step 3: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Step 4: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring gently until the pasta is well coated.
- Step 6 (optional): For a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Variations
- Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for smoother melting and better flavor.
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream along with the milk.
- Try adding cooked bacon or diced jalapeños for a smoky or spicy twist.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, strain the roux and milk mixture before adding cheese.
Storage
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce as needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with shells, penne, or cavatappi for a similar texture and great cheese coverage.
Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese?
Baking is optional and adds a crispy, golden top. The dish is delicious served immediately after mixing the pasta with the cheese sauce if you prefer a quicker preparation.
PrintChick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese recipe is a creamy, comforting dish made with elbow macaroni and a rich blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. It features a smooth cheese sauce thickened with a classic roux and can be enjoyed straight from the stovetop or baked to develop a bubbly, golden crust for added texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Mac and Cheese 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 and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden color to form a roux.
- Add Milk and Thicken: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Season: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until completely melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Macaroni and Sauce: Mix the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy mixture.
- Optional Baking Step: For a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Cook the macaroni just until al dente to avoid mushy mac and cheese after baking.
- Whole milk is recommended for creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% milk if desired.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- This recipe can be doubled easily to serve a larger group.
Keywords: Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese, macaroni and cheese recipe, creamy mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheddar mac and cheese
