Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and slightly tangy comfort dish loved by many. This copycat version blends cheddar cheese with cream cheese for extra richness, delivering a smooth, velvety texture that pairs perfectly with crispy chicken.
Ingredients List
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 3: Gradually whisk in warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Remove sauce from heat and stir in cream cheese until smooth, then add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 5: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta.
Step 6: Serve immediately for best creaminess.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings
Serves 4
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 420
Carbs: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 24g
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Pairings/Suggestions
Pairs well with crispy chicken sandwiches or a fresh green salad.
Seasonal Relevance
Great year-round comfort food, especially during cooler months.
Conclusion
This Chick-fil-A style mac and cheese offers creamy, cheesy comfort with a touch of tanginess from the cream cheese, perfect for satisfying cravings at home.
Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
Course: Uncategorized4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalThis ultra-creamy copycat Chick-fil-A mac and cheese combines sharp cheddar and cream cheese for that signature rich, velvety texture. Perfectly seasoned and served hot, it’s a cozy, crave-worthy side dish you can now enjoy at home.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove sauce from heat and stir in cream cheese until smooth, then add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta.
- Serve immediately for best creaminess.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheddar for smoother melting.
Cream cheese adds richness and a subtle tang—don’t skip it.
Best served immediately to maintain creaminess.
Reheat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Pairs well with crispy chicken or barbecue mains.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this ahead?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal creaminess.
Q2: Can I add other cheeses?
You can add mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
Q3: How do I prevent the sauce from thickening too much?
Add a splash of milk when reheating to loosen the sauce if needed.
