If you’ve ever craved that perfectly creamy, cheesy comfort food from your favorite fast-food spot, then you’re in for a treat with this Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s a luscious, homemade take on the classic dish that’s both rich and delightfully indulgent, capturing that velvety texture and bold cheese flavor you adore. Prepared with simple ingredients and a little patience, this recipe turns ordinary elbow macaroni into a dreamy bowl of cheesy goodness that will have you coming back for seconds every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese Recipe plays a starring role in building its creamy texture, sharp cheesy punch, and gorgeous golden finish. They’re simple, but each one adds depth and richness you’ll notice in every spoonful.
- 1 pound elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape for perfect cheese coating and tenderness.
- 1/4 cup butter: Provides a silky base that enriches the sauce’s flavor and texture.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: The essential thickening agent for that luscious creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1/8 teaspoon ground paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- 2 cups whole milk: Contributes to a smooth, creamy sauce.
- 1 egg yolk: Helps thicken the sauce further and adds richness.
- 8 slices American cheese: Melts beautifully for that classic creamy base.
- 16 ounces freshly grated extra sharp cheddar cheese (divided): Delivers sharp, tangy flavor and depth.
- 1 cup Italian blend cheese (shredded): Adds a medley of flavors for extra cheesiness and complexity.
How to Make Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
This start is key: boil a large pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni for a full 20 minutes. Yes, you heard me right! This longer cooking time is the secret to that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes this mac and cheese stand apart from the rest.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce Base
Drain the pasta and set it aside while you focus on your sauce. Melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour, salt, and paprika. Stir constantly to avoid lumps because a smooth roux sets the stage for that perfect creamy sauce we’re aiming for.
Step 3: Add the Milk to the Roux
Gradually pour in whole milk, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Keep at it for a couple of minutes until the mixture thickens to that beautifully creamy consistency that will hug each noodle in cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Temper the Egg Yolk
In a small bowl, mix your egg yolk with a spoonful of the hot milk mixture to prevent scrambling. Then whisk this tempered yolk back into your pot. This little trick builds richness while ensuring your sauce stays silky smooth.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses
Turn the heat down low and slowly add torn American cheese slices. Stir until melted, then add half the cheddar cheese along with all the Italian blend. Keep stirring gently until every shred melts seamlessly into the sauce.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce, Then Bake
Toss your perfectly cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, folding it together carefully to coat every piece. Transfer to a baking dish, top with the remaining sharp cheddar, and slide it under the broiler just until the top browns beautifully. Keep a close eye—it goes from golden to burnt in a flash!
How to Serve Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives brightens up the richness and adds a lovely pop of color that invites you in. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of smoked paprika on top complements the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This mac and cheese shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, tangy coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. For a hearty meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or barbecue ribs for a classic comfort food combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not try individual portions baked in cute ramekins or little cast iron skillets for a cozy, rustic vibe? You can even top each serving with crispy breadcrumbs or bacon bits for an extra crunch that will impress everyone at your dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for a quick comfort meal whenever you need a cheesy pick-me-up.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and you can keep it for up to 2 months. When you want that creamy goodness again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven at a low temperature to preserve that creamy texture. Adding a splash of milk will help loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much during storage. Avoid microwaving too long or at high heat, which can cause the cheese to separate.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and perfect for holding the cheese sauce, you can use shells, rotini, or even penne. Just keep in mind cooking times might vary slightly with different shapes.
What makes this Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese Recipe different from regular mac and cheese?
The lengthy 20-minute pasta boil for that tender texture combined with a blend of American, sharp cheddar, and Italian blend cheeses delivers a unique creamy richness and flavor complexity that sets it apart.
Can I substitute the whole milk with something else?
Whole milk offers the richest texture, but you can use 2% milk if that’s what you have on hand. Avoid skim or non-dairy milks as they won’t create the same creamy sauce, though heavy cream could be used for an even richer dish.
Is it necessary to temper the egg yolk?
Yes, tempering the egg yolk by mixing it with hot milk first prevents it from scrambling when added to the sauce, ensuring your cheese sauce stays smooth and silky rather than lumpy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Just adjust the amount slightly for the best texture since different flours absorb liquid differently.
Final Thoughts
This Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese Recipe is a wonderful way to bring that warm, cheesy comfort straight to your kitchen. With its creamy texture and bold, cheesy flavors, it’s a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. I encourage you to give it a try — it’s like a big, cozy hug in every bite, and I promise it will become one of your new favorites!
Print
Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chick Fil A-style mac and cheese recipe recreates the creamy, cheesy comfort food favorite with a tender, flavorful pasta and a rich cheese sauce topped with a golden broiled crust. Perfect for cozy meals or entertaining, this mac and cheese delivers that famed tender texture and luscious cheese blend in every bite.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground paprika
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 egg yolk
- 8 slices American cheese
- 16 ounces freshly grated extra sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup Italian blend cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 20 minutes to achieve a tender texture. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Melt Butter and Make Roux: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Whisk in the flour, salt, and paprika, stirring constantly to avoid lumps and create a smooth roux.
- Add Milk Gradually: Slowly add the whole milk in small increments, whisking thoroughly between additions until the sauce is smooth. Continue whisking for 1-2 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Temper Egg Yolk: In a small bowl, place the egg yolk. Add a spoonful of the hot milk mixture to the yolk and whisk immediately to temper it and prevent scrambling.
- Incorporate Egg Yolk: Add the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the pot and whisk until fully combined with the sauce.
- Add Cheeses: Reduce heat to low. Tear the American cheese slices into pieces and add them to the pot. Then add half of the grated cheddar and all of the Italian blend cheese. Stir gently until all cheeses melt into a smooth sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to ensure even coating and thorough mixing.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Top and Broil: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top. Place the dish under the broiler just until the top becomes golden brown and bubbly, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately while hot and deliciously cheesy.
Notes
- Cooking the macaroni longer than usual results in the tender texture characteristic of Chick Fil A mac and cheese.
- Tempering the egg yolk before adding it to the sauce prevents the egg from scrambling and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Watch the broiler closely as the cheese topping can burn quickly.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Adjust salt according to your taste, especially if your cheese is salty.
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