Name: Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
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

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving the rich, melty comfort of cheesy pasta with a little hint of nostalgia, then you’re going to love recreating the Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese right at home. This dish perfectly balances sharp cheddar with creamy Monterey Jack cheese, enveloping tender elbow macaroni in a luscious sauce that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you want a trusty side for your barbecue or a cozy bowl to brighten a weeknight, Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese is an all-time favorite that’s simple enough for anyone to master yet impressive enough to become your new go-to comfort food.

Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese is easier than you might think, but each element is crucial for that authentic, creamy texture and rich flavor. From the perfectly shaped elbow macaroni that holds the sauce to the combo of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses that create layers of taste, every ingredient has a special job.

Elbow macaroni (1 cup): Classic pasta shape that’s perfect for capturing every bit of cheesy sauce.
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (1 cup): Adds bold flavor and that signature tangy kick.
Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (1 cup): Brings creamy melting quality with a mild, buttery note.
Whole milk (2 cups): Creates a smooth, rich base for the cheese sauce.
Butter (4 tablespoons): Essential for a flavorful roux, helping thicken the sauce and add richness.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Combines with butter to thicken the sauce perfectly without lumps.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that elevate every bite.

How to Make Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Begin by boiling your elbow macaroni in salted water until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. This step is crucial because pasta that’s too soft won’t hold up well under the creamy sauce but slightly firm bites make the dish more enjoyable and substantial.

Step 2: Make the Roux

While your pasta cooks, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about two minutes until it turns a light golden color. This mixture, called a roux, is the foundation for that velvety cheese sauce, so patience here will pay off with smoothness and body.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Next, slowly whisk in your whole milk, stirring continually so you don’t get lumps. Keep heating the mixture until it thickens, which usually takes about five to seven minutes. This thickened milk base is what gives Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese its signature creamy consistency.

Step 4: Cheese It Up

Remove your sauce from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. The cheese will melt beautifully into the warm milk mixture, creating a luscious sauce. Add salt and pepper here to enhance the flavors and balance out the creamy cheese.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now for the best part: mix your drained elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta is luxuriously coated in that cheesy goodness — this is what makes Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese so incredibly delicious.

Step 6: Optional Bake for a Crispy Top

If you’re craving a bit of texture contrast, transfer the cheesy macaroni to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. This extra step develops a bubbly, golden crust on top, adding a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy interior.

How to Serve Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives can instantly brighten the dish with a fresh color and subtle flavor. For an extra indulgent touch, a dash of smoked paprika or a handful of crispy breadcrumbs toasted in butter adds a deliciously smoky or crunchy layer.

Side Dishes

Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with everything from juicy grilled chicken breasts to roasted vegetables or even a crisp, refreshing salad. It’s the perfect creamy companion that balances out proteins and greens beautifully, making your meal feel complete and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese in mini ramekins for individual portions or pile it generously in a hollowed-out bread bowl to impress your guests. You can also drizzle a little hot sauce or mix in some cooked bacon bits for a flavor explosion that’s sure to delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftovers of Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to three days. This allows you to enjoy this creamy favorite without any waste and makes lunchtime or dinner the next day a breeze.

Freezing

You can freeze Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese easily by placing it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It should be consumed within one to two months for the best taste and texture. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the oven to keep the cheese sauce creamy and prevent separation. Adding a splash of milk when reheating works wonders to revive the smooth texture and keep the flavors bright and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese for Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack are traditional, feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little extra kick. Just keep in mind their melting qualities to maintain that creamy texture.

Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese?

Not at all! Baking is optional and only adds a crispy topping, but the dish is perfectly delicious straight from the stovetop, creamy and smooth without any additional steps.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make the roux. Just be sure to check that your pasta is also gluten-free for a completely safe meal.

Can I add vegetables to Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese?

Yes, adding cooked vegetables like broccoli, peas, or roasted red peppers is a fantastic way to add nutrition and color to this comfort food classic. Stir them in after mixing the pasta with the cheese sauce.

What’s the best way to get a smooth cheese sauce?

Slowly whisk the milk into the roux to prevent lumps, and remove the sauce from heat before adding cheese to avoid graininess. Using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded helps the sauce melt more smoothly too.

Final Thoughts

This joyful bowl of Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug and tastes like a celebration of all things cheesy and comforting. It’s approachable enough for any skill level and versatile enough to pair with countless meals. I can’t wait for you to try it and maybe even make it your own special twist on a beloved classic.

Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 12 reviews

Author: Marina
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 3 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic inspired by the beloved fast-food chain. Featuring tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, homemade cheese sauce combining sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, it’s easy to prepare and perfect as a hearty side or main dish. For extra indulgence, bake with a crispy golden topping.

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

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour steadily, cooking and stirring for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color, creating a roux that helps thicken the sauce.
Add Milk and Thicken: Gradually whisk in the whole milk to the roux, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful to keep the heat moderate to avoid scorching.
Melt the Cheese: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir until fully melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
Optional Baking Step: If you prefer a baked version with a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese into 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 a creamier texture, use full-fat dairy products and freshly shredded cheese.
Feel free to add a pinch of paprika or mustard powder to the cheese sauce for added depth of flavor.
Using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese helps achieve a smoother melt.
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
The optional bake step creates a crispy, golden top, but the mac and cheese is delicious served immediately off the stove as well.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boiling, Stovetop, Optional Baking
Cuisine: American