Copycat Chick Fil A Mac And Cheese Recipe

Chick-fil-A’s Mac and Cheese is a beloved side dish known for its creamy, rich flavor and blend of cheeses. While the exact recipe is proprietary, you can recreate a similar taste experience at home with this inspired version. It features a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor and a baked topping for that desired crispy crust. Let discover the delicious Chick Fil A Mac And Cheese Recipe

Table of Contents

Chick fil a mac and cheese recipe

Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe, a delicious homage to the iconic side dish from everyone’s favorite chicken restaurant. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-indulgent, this mac and cheese recipe captures the essence of Chick-fil-A’s beloved classic, offering a perfect blend of rich flavors and creamy textures that will leave you craving more.

Made with wholesome ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, our homemade version of Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese brings the comfort of Southern hospitality straight to your kitchen. Whether served as a hearty side dish at family gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this cheesy delight is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. So, grab your apron and get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food satisfaction with our Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

1 lb (about 450g) elbow macaroni
1/4 cup (about 60g) unsalted butter
1/4 cup (about 30g) all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups (about 590ml) whole milk
1/2 cup (about 120ml) heavy cream
2 cups (about 200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup (about 100g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup (about 50g) grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for added flavor)

For the Topping

1/2 cup (about 50g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup (about 50g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup (about 25g) grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Lower the heat and add in the sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated. Transfer the mac and cheese to the prepared baking dish.
Add the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the additional sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses for the topping. Sprinkle this cheese mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is beginning to brown.
Broil for a Crispy Top:
For an extra crispy topping, broil the mac and cheese for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Serve:
Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Tips

Cheese Selection: The blend of cheeses can be adjusted according to your taste. Chick-fil-A’s version is known for its blend of different cheeses, contributing to its rich taste.
Creaminess: For an even creamier texture, you can adjust the ratio of milk to heavy cream, adding more cream as desired.
Reheating: If reheating leftovers, a splash of milk stirred in before microwaving can help revive the creamy texture.

Enjoy this comforting, creamy mac and cheese that brings the taste of Chick-fil-A into your home kitchen!

FAQs about Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe

1. What are the main ingredients in Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese?

The main ingredients in Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese typically include pasta (such as elbow macaroni), butter, flour, milk, shredded cheese (such as cheddar or American cheese), salt, and pepper.

2. Can I use different types of cheese in Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese?

Yes, you can customize the cheese blend in Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese according to your preferences. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Swiss, to create unique flavor variations.

3. How do I achieve the creamy texture of Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese?

To achieve the creamy texture of Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese, it’s important to cook the pasta until it’s al dente and to gradually add the milk and cheese mixture while stirring continuously over low heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

4. Can I make Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Store the cooked mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheat it in the microwave or oven until heated through.

5. Is Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese gluten-free?

No, Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese is not gluten-free as it contains pasta made from wheat flour. However, you can use gluten-free pasta to make a gluten-free version of the recipe.

6. Can I add additional ingredients to Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese?

Yes, you can customize Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese by adding ingredients such as cooked bacon, diced ham, broccoli florets, or diced tomatoes for added flavor and texture.

Chick Fil A Mac And Cheese Recipe