Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
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.
- 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
Find it online: https://ellaeatsdaily.com/chick-fil-a-mac-and-cheese-recipe/
