Introduction

This Chick-fil-A inspired mac and cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect as a side or a satisfying main. With a smooth cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, it captures the classic flavors you love.

A close-up of a single square piece of macaroni and cheese served on a white plate, showing three main layers: the bottom layer made of creamy, pale yellow cheese sauce mixed with elbow macaroni, the middle layer of soft, cooked macaroni covered in smooth cheese sauce, and the top layer of melted cheese browned to a golden, bubbly texture with crispy spots; small green herb pieces are sprinkled on top for color contrast, and some cheese sauce is oozing slightly onto the plate. The background is softly blurred with a white marbled texture surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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, cooking for about 2 minutes until golden to create a roux.
Step 3: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until thickened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 4: Remove from heat and add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat evenly.
Step 6: For an optional 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 freshly shredded cheese for a smoother melt and richer flavor.
For extra creaminess, stir in a little cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
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 stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of creamy macaroni and cheese in a white ceramic dish. The dish is filled with small curved pasta mixed with melted yellow and white cheese, creating a soft, gooey texture. A spoon is lifting a portion of the mac and cheese, showing the thick sauce coating every piece of pasta. The cheese is visibly melted and stringy, with some darker golden spots where it has baked. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like shells, penne, or rotini will work well with this recipe and hold the cheese sauce nicely.

Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese?

No, baking is optional. You can enjoy it straight from the stove after mixing the pasta with the cheese sauce. Baking adds a crispy, golden top if you prefer.

Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 130 reviews

This Chick-fil-A inspired mac and cheese recipe features creamy, cheesy goodness using sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses combined with tender elbow macaroni. It’s a comforting, homemade take on the beloved side dish, with an optional baked crispy topping for added texture.

Author: Ella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns golden and forms a smooth roux.
Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk. Continue stirring the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Add the Cheeses: Remove the saucepan from heat. 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 Pasta and Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the drained macaroni. Stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy cheese sauce.
Optional Baking Step: For a crispy top, 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 bubbling and golden brown on top.

Notes

Use whole milk for a creamier, richer sauce. You can substitute with 2% milk, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.
To add a crunchy topping, consider sprinkling breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
Salting the pasta water is essential to season the macaroni properly before combining with the cheese sauce.
For a dairy-free version, substitute cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives and use plant-based milk and butter.
Keep stirring while making the roux and adding milk to prevent lumps in the sauce.

Keywords: chick-fil-a mac and cheese, homemade mac and cheese, creamy cheesy macaroni, baked mac and cheese, cheddar mac and cheese