If you’re craving Chick-fil-A’s creamy, cheesy mac and cheese, this copycat recipe is your go-to. Known for its rich blend of cheeses and perfect golden-brown top, this version mimics the beloved side dish, offering a comforting and indulgent experience.
Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe (Copycat Version)
6
servings15
minutes25
minutes428
kcal40
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- For the Mac and Cheese:
225 g 8 oz elbow macaroni
240 ml 1 cup whole milk
120 ml 1/2 cup heavy cream
115 g 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese
60 g 2 oz Colby-Jack cheese
60 g 2 oz Parmesan cheese
60 g 2 oz American cheese
1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Topping:
30 g 1/4 cup shredded Colby-Jack cheese
30 g 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Equipment
Medium saucepan- Whisk
- Baking dish
- Oven-safe skillet
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente (around 7-8 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the milk and heavy cream, whisking to combine.
- Gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar, Colby-Jack, Parmesan, and American cheese.
- Continue to whisk until all the cheeses melt into a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure every noodle is coated.
- Pour the mixture into your baking dish.
- Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the remaining Colby-Jack and cheddar cheese over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the mac and cheese for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
- If you prefer a crispier topping, switch to the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve:
- Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes and serve.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other short pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or penne for a different texture, though the classic “mac” shape holds sauce particularly well.
Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the dish, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake it at 400°F (200°C) until bubbly and golden, adding 5-10 extra minutes if baking from cold.
Can I freeze this mac and cheese?
Yes! After assembling (but before baking), cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best cheese combination for this recipe?
The recipe calls for sharp cheddar, Colby-Jack, Parmesan, and American cheese to replicate Chick-fil-A’s flavor. However, you can experiment by adding cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even smoked Gouda for a unique twist.
Can I make this mac and cheese lighter?
You can lighten the dish by using lower-fat milk or substituting half of the heavy cream with whole milk. However, the texture might not be as rich and creamy. Another option is to use reduced-fat cheese, though the taste may differ slightly.
How can I get a crispy top like Chick-fil-A?
The key to a crispy, golden-brown top is broiling the mac and cheese for the last 2-3 minutes. Just be sure to keep an eye on it, as broilers can burn the cheese quickly!
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I make this without an oven?
Yes! If you don’t want to bake, you can serve the mac and cheese straight from the stovetop. It won’t have the crispy baked top, but it will still be deliciously creamy.d
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