Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
The aroma of creamy, cheesy goodness fills the kitchen with this irresistible Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni is enveloped in a rich blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, creating a comforting dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether served as a side or a main, this mac and cheese brings warmth and joy to any meal.
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 butter. Stir in flour and cook for about 2 minutes until golden to create a roux.
- Step 3: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly 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, mixing until the pasta is well coated.
- Step 6 (optional): For a crispy top, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Variations
- Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can give the dish a subtle, spicy kick.
- For extra creaminess, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
- Top with breadcrumbs before baking for added crunch.
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 restore creaminess if needed. If baked, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other short pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne for similar results.
Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese?
Baking is optional. It adds a crispy, golden top, but you can enjoy the mac and cheese right after combining the pasta and sauce for a creamier texture.
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Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Enjoy the creamy, cheesy delight of homemade Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese. This recipe combines perfectly cooked elbow macaroni with a rich blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, all enveloped in a smooth, buttery cheese sauce. Optionally baked to achieve a golden, crispy top, this dish is a comforting crowd-pleaser ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Macaroni
- 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 and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook 1 cup of elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a light golden color to form a roux.
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, approximately 5-7 minutes. Make sure to avoid lumps for a silky texture.
- Melt the cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until all the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Optional baking step: For a crispy 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 bubbly and golden brown on top.
Notes
- Using sharp cheddar cheese adds a tangy depth of flavor, but you can substitute with mild cheddar if preferred.
- Whole milk ensures a creamy sauce; for lighter options, 2% milk may be used but with less richness.
- Make sure to cook the roux properly to avoid a raw flour taste in your sauce.
- For smaller portions, the recipe can be halved or doubled with proportional ingredient adjustments.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Adding a breadcrumb topping before baking enhances crunchiness if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese, creamy mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, homemade mac and cheese, comfort food
