Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy & Comforting
If you’ve ever had Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese, you know it’s not your average side dish—it’s rich, creamy, and loaded with layers of melted cheese. The good news? You don’t have to wait in line at the drive-thru anymore! This Chick fil A mac and cheese recipe brings the famous flavor right into your kitchen.
Made with a blend of cheeses and baked to perfection with a golden top, this copycat recipe is comfort food at its finest. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or simply satisfying a craving, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
Pasta:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (16 oz)
- 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)
Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor depth)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Cheese Blend (shredded):
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese
- ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup American cheese (or Velveeta for creaminess)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Cook pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente (about 7–8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux – In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbly (this removes the raw flour taste).
- Add liquids – Slowly whisk in warm milk and heavy cream until smooth and thickened (5–6 minutes).
- Season – Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add cheeses – Lower heat and gradually stir in cheddar, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, and American cheese until creamy.
- Combine with pasta – Fold in the cooked macaroni until evenly coated.
- Transfer to baking dish – Pour mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top & bake – Sprinkle Parmesan and extra cheddar on top. Broil or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Serve warm – Scoop and enjoy the Chick-fil-A style creaminess!
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serving Size: 6–8 portions
Tips & Variations
- Extra cheesy: Add cream cheese for even more creaminess.
- Spicy kick: Mix in cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Breadcrumb topping: Add buttered panko breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy layer.
- One-pan shortcut: Skip baking and serve directly after making the cheese sauce for a stovetop version.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate, based on 8 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 16 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour substitute (like rice flour or cornstarch).
- Low-Fat: Swap heavy cream for evaporated skim milk and reduce butter.
- Keto-Friendly: Replace pasta with cauliflower florets or shirataki noodles.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and vegan cheese blends.
Serving Suggestions
This Chick fil A mac and cheese recipe is best served as a warm, gooey side dish, but it’s so hearty it can stand alone as a main course. Pair it with grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or even a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
The creamy, cheesy layers will make you feel like you’re dining right at Chick-fil-A—only now, you’ve made it in your own kitchen!
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I make Chick-fil-A mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake until hot and bubbly.
Q2: What cheeses are best for this recipe?
A blend of sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, American, and Parmesan gives the authentic Chick-fil-A flavor.
Q3: Can I freeze mac and cheese?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.
Q4: Why is my cheese sauce grainy?
Overheating cheese can cause separation. Always add cheese on low heat and stir until just melted.
Q5: Can I double the recipe for a party?
Absolutely! Double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish—perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
