Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
Love Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese? This easy recipe combines sharp cheddar, Romano, cream, and pasta for rich comfort food.
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Colander
- Medium heavy-bottom saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Cheese grater (if shredding fresh cheese)
- Oven
Ingredients
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni uncooked
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk room temperature
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese freshly shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika optional, for warmth
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente according to package instructions.
- Do not overcook. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven later.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Roux
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Once melted, add the flour.
- Whisk continuously for about 1–2 minutes. You want the raw flour taste to cook out, but don’t let it brown. It should look smooth and slightly bubbly.
Step 3: Build the Cream Sauce
- Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly. Then add the heavy cream.
- Keep whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for about 4–5 minutes, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Lower the heat.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Add the sharp cheddar, mild cheddar, Parmesan, and Romano cheese a handful at a time. Stir gently until fully melted before adding more.
- Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Taste the sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- At this stage, the sauce should be thick, creamy, and luxuriously smooth.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Stir until every piece is beautifully coated.
- Pour everything into a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 6: Add the Topping
- Sprinkle the additional cheddar and Parmesan evenly over the top.
- This is what gives that signature baked finish.
Step 7: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the top is melted and lightly golden brown.
- If you want a deeper golden crust, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end—but watch closely.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- And that’s it. Your homemade Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese is ready.