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Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe

4.5 from 127 reviews

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.

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 and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Macaroni: Boil salted water in a pot, then cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. 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.
  3. Create the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk into the roux. Keep stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. 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.
  5. Combine Macaroni and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta evenly.
  6. 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