Chick-Fil-A Macaroni & Cheese (Copycat Recipe) – Creamy, Cheesy Perfection

If you're craving that rich, ultra-creamy, and cheesy macaroni and cheese from Chick-Fil-A but want to make it at home, you're in for a treat! This copycat recipe brings together the velvety smoothness of American cheese, the sharpness of extra-sharp cheddar, and the Italian blend to create a mac and cheese that is golden, luscious, and packed with flavor. Imagine diving into a warm, gooey dish of macaroni that’s baked to perfection with a golden-brown cheese crust on top. It’s everything you love about Chick-Fil-A’s version, but even better because you made it yourself. Whether you’re serving this as a side dish or a comforting main course, this mac and cheese is bound to become your new favorite indulgence.

Scroll to the bottom for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Chick-Fil-A Macaroni & Cheese (Copycat Recipe)

Chick-Fil-A may be known for its chicken, but their macaroni and cheese has earned its place as a fan favorite. What makes it special is the combination of creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with a layer of broiled cheese that adds a delightful crunch. This copycat recipe stays true to the original, using a blend of cheeses to recreate that signature flavor and texture. By using freshly grated cheddar, American cheese slices, and a blend of Italian cheeses, we can achieve that luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth creaminess with every bite. And with a little extra care under the broiler, you’ll get that crispy, cheesy top that’s hard to resist. Get ready for cheesy bliss!

Why Chick-Fil-A Macaroni & Cheese Will Be Your Go-To Comfort Dish

This mac and cheese is everything a comfort dish should be—creamy, cheesy, and just a little bit indulgent. The combination of multiple cheeses gives it a complex flavor profile, with the American cheese adding smoothness and the sharp cheddar and Italian blend providing richness and depth. Cooking the noodles for an extended time ensures they soak up all the creamy sauce, making each bite incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, a holiday side, or a comforting solo meal, this macaroni and cheese is bound to impress.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):

• Calories: 500 kcal
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 20g
• Sodium: 1050mg
• Fiber: 2g

Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese is indulgent and rich but makes for a comforting meal that’s perfect for special occasions or when you’re craving something delicious.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This macaroni and cheese is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside crispy fried chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham for a comforting Southern-inspired meal. It also works well as a hearty side to BBQ ribs, pulled pork, or roasted vegetables. If you're looking for a lighter pairing, a simple green salad or steamed broccoli will balance out the richness of the cheese. For extra indulgence, consider serving it with garlic bread or a warm biscuit to soak up every bit of that creamy cheese sauce.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of this mac and cheese store wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day enjoyment. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

If you want to freeze leftovers, store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven, adding a little extra cheese on top for that crispy finish.

Fun Fact: The History of Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese has a long history, dating back to the 18th century when it first appeared in European cookbooks. Over time, it made its way to the United States, becoming a beloved comfort food. Thomas Jefferson is said to have served it at a state dinner after discovering the dish while traveling in Europe. Today, mac and cheese is a staple in American cuisine, with endless variations ranging from stovetop to baked and everything in between. The Chick-Fil-A version adds a modern twist, with its multi-cheese blend and oven-broiled finish.

Cooking Tips

• Grate Your Own Cheese: For the best results, always use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that prevent them from melting smoothly.
• Broil with Care: When broiling the cheese topping, keep a close eye on the oven, as it can go from golden brown to burnt very quickly. Don’t walk away during this step!
• Creamier Sauce: For an even creamier sauce, feel free to add a little more milk or cream to the cheese mixture.

Optional Variations

• Add a Crunch: For extra texture, sprinkle some buttery breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top of the macaroni and cheese before broiling.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
• Smoky Flavor: Try adding a small amount of smoked gouda or smoked cheddar to the cheese mix for a subtle smoky flavor.

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Chick-Fil-A Macaroni & Cheese (Copycat Recipe)

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon ground paprika
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 egg yolk
• 8 slices American cheese
• 16 ounces freshly grated extra sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup Italian blend cheese, shredded

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni noodles and boil for 20 minutes—yes, 20 minutes is correct! This extra cooking time ensures that the noodles absorb the cheese sauce thoroughly.
2. Make the cheese sauce: While the pasta is boiling, melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, salt, and paprika, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux.
3. Add the milk: Slowly whisk in the milk, a little at a time, making sure it’s fully incorporated before adding more. Continue whisking for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
4. Temper the egg yolk: In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk. Add a spoonful of the hot milk mixture to the yolk and immediately whisk it together to prevent curdling. Once combined, add the yolk mixture back into the pot and whisk thoroughly.
5. Add the cheeses: Tear the American cheese slices into small pieces and add them to the pot. Stir in half of the grated cheddar and the Italian blend cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine with pasta: Drain the cooked macaroni and gently stir it into the cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated.
7. Prepare for baking: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Top with more cheese: Sprinkle the remaining half of the grated cheddar cheese over the top of the macaroni.
9. Broil for a golden crust: Place the dish under the broiler in your oven. Keep a close eye on it and broil until the top is golden brown and bubbly, about 2-4 minutes. Don’t leave it unattended, as it can burn quickly!
10. Serve: Once the cheese topping is perfectly browned, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Final Thoughts

This Chick-Fil-A Macaroni & Cheese copycat recipe delivers the same creamy, cheesy, and indulgent goodness you love from the original, right in your own kitchen. With its rich cheese sauce, perfectly cooked macaroni, and golden-brown crust, this dish is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or just to satisfy a mac and cheese craving, it’s bound to be a hit with everyone!