Indulgent, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying, chick fil a mac and cheese recipe is a beloved comfort food that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many.
This iconic dish from the popular fast-food chain is a creamy blend of tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce.
Its popularity stems from its irresistible combination of quality ingredients, including real cheddar cheese, milk, cream, and seasonings, all coming together to create a dish that’s pure comfort on a plate.
Whether enjoyed as a side to Chick-fil-A’s famous chicken offerings or savored on its own, chick fil a mac and cheese recipe never fails to deliver a comforting and satisfying experience.
In this recipe, I’ll show you how to recreate this delicious dish right in your own kitchen, allowing you to enjoy its creamy goodness anytime you want.
Let’s dive into the magic of chick fil a mac and cheese recipe!
What Is Chick-Fil-A Mac And Cheese?
Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese is a creamy and indulgent side dish offered by the popular fast-food chain, Chick-fil-A.
It features elbow macaroni pasta smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce made from a blend of cheddar cheeses, milk, cream, butter, and seasonings.
The macaroni is cooked until perfectly al dente, then combined with the smooth and flavorful cheese sauce.
The dish is then baked until golden brown and bubbly, resulting in a comforting and satisfying treat that’s loved by many.
How To Make Chick Fil A Mac And Cheese Recipe?
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Yield: Serves 6
Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3.5 ounces American cheese (not pre-sliced singles), roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3.5 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 ounce white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 ounce shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon grated Romano cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Colby-Jack cheese (for topping)
Cooking Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni noodles and cook according to package instructions, aiming for a slightly al dente texture (about 20 minutes). Drain the pasta well and set aside.
2. Craft the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour, salt, and paprika, ensuring a smooth consistency.
Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, until thickened.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk with a spoonful of the hot milk mixture. Slowly incorporate this tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking continuously.
3. Cheese Extravaganza:
Reduce the heat to low and begin the cheese extravaganza! Add the American cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, and all of the Italian blend cheese. Stir constantly until the cheeses are melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
4. The Grand Finale:
Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and gently fold everything together. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and Colby-Jack cheese.
5. Broil to Perfection:
Preheat your oven to broil. Broil the mac and cheese for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Special Note:
Remember, freshly grated cheeses always yield the best results in terms of flavor and texture. So, grab your cheese grater and get ready to indulge in this delightful homemade Chick-fil-A mac and cheese recipe!
Nutrition Facts Chick Fil A Mac And Cheese Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Fat | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Sodium | 540mg |
| Sugars | 4g |
Tips For Perfecting Your Chick-Fil-A Mac And Cheese
1. Use High-Quality Cheese: Start with good-quality sharp cheddar cheese for the richest flavor and creamiest texture. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
2. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cook the macaroni just until it’s al dente, or slightly firm to the bite. This ensures the pasta maintains its texture and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.
3. Gradually Incorporate the Liquid: When making the cheese sauce, add the milk and cream gradually while whisking continuously. This helps prevent lumps and results in a silky-smooth sauce.
4. Season to Taste: Don’t forget to season your cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference for a flavorful dish.
5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Bake the mac and cheese until it’s golden brown and bubbly on top. This ensures that the sauce is fully heated through and the cheese is perfectly melted for ultimate indulgence.
Best Variations to Elevate Your Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese
1. Bacon Lover’s Delight:
Crisp up some bacon until it’s nice and crunchy, then crumble it over the top of your mac and cheese before baking. The salty, smoky flavor of bacon adds an irresistible twist to this classic dish.
2. Spicy Kick with Jalapeños:
For those who like a little heat, diced jalapeños are the perfect addition. Mix them into the cheese sauce for a subtle kick, or sprinkle them over the top before baking for a burst of flavor in every bite.
3. Truffle Mac and Cheese:
Elevate your mac and cheese to gourmet status by adding a drizzle of truffle oil to the cheese sauce. The earthy aroma and rich flavor of truffles take this dish to a whole new level of sophistication.
4. Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese:
Toss shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce, then mix it into your mac and cheese before baking. Top with crumbled blue cheese for a tangy finish. This variation is perfect for spice lovers and adds a zesty twist to the classic dish.
5. Loaded Mac and Cheese:
Take your mac and cheese to the next level by loading it up with your favorite toppings. Think diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, chopped bell peppers, and even a sprinkle of crispy fried onions. The more toppings, the merrier!
Can Vegetarians Eat Chick Fil A Mac And Cheese?
Unfortunately, no, vegetarians cannot eat Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese. While it may seem like a simple pasta dish, Chick-fil-A‘s mac and cheese contains cheese, which is a dairy product derived from animal milk.
This makes it unsuitable for vegetarians who abstain from consuming any animal products.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese special?
Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese stands out for its creamy texture and rich flavor, made with high-quality ingredients and a perfect balance of cheese and pasta.
Can I make Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese at home?
Yes, you can! Follow the simple recipe provided, and you’ll have delicious homemade mac and cheese in no time.
Is Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese healthy?
While it’s a tasty comfort food, Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high calorie and fat content.
How can I make Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the cheese sauce.
Can I freeze Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Chick fil a mac and cheese recipe isn’t just a side dish; it’s a comfort food masterpiece that brings joy to every bite.
With its creamy texture, rich cheese flavor, and comforting appeal, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite among many.
Craving a hearty side to accompany your meal or seeking a tasty snack to satisfy your cravings, chick fil a mac and cheese recipe is sure to hit the spot.
By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can recreate the magic of Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese right in your own kitchen.
So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Here’s to creamy goodness and happy taste buds with every spoonful of Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese!
Chick Fil A Mac And Cheese Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot,
- Colander
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3.5 ounces American cheese not pre-sliced singles, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3.5 ounces sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 ounce white cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 ounce shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon grated Romano cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Colby-Jack cheese for topping
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni noodles and cook according to package instructions, aiming for a slightly al dente texture (about 20 minutes). Drain the pasta well and set aside.
Craft the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour, salt, and paprika, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, until thickened.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk with a spoonful of the hot milk mixture. Slowly incorporate this tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking continuously.
Cheese Extravaganza:
- Reduce the heat to low and begin the cheese extravaganza! Add the American cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, and all of the Italian blend cheese. Stir constantly until the cheeses are melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
The Grand Finale:
- Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and gently fold everything together. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and Colby-Jack cheese.
Broil to Perfection:
- Preheat your oven to broil. Broil the mac and cheese for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
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