Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This creamy Chick-fil-A style mac and cheese is a comforting classic that’s easy to make at home. With a rich cheese sauce and tender elbow macaroni, it’s perfect as a side dish or a satisfying snack.
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 the mixture turns golden, forming 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 completely melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully 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 a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a balanced flavor; you can substitute with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for variety.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese when whisking in the milk.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce.
- Top with breadcrumbs before baking to enhance the crispy topping.
Storage
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
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, penne, or rotini for similar results.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Make sure to add the cheese off the heat and stir until melted. Avoid boiling the sauce after adding cheese to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
PrintChick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Chick-fil-A inspired mac and cheese features a creamy, cheesy sauce made with sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses enveloping tender elbow macaroni. Finished with an optional baked crispy top, this comforting dish is perfect as a main or side dish, combining rich flavors with a smooth, velvety texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
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 and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil salted water in a pot, then cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare the Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and fragrant, forming a roux base.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk into the roux. Keep stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the 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 into the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta evenly.
- Optional Bake for Crispy Top: To create a golden, bubbly crust, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of heavy cream along with the milk.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Salt the pasta water well to season the macaroni internally.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave; add a little milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Optional breadcrumbs can be sprinkled on top before baking for added crunch.
Keywords: Chick-fil-A mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheddar Monterey Jack mac and cheese
