Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese – This Southern-inspired side dish has quickly become a fan favorite, delivering the perfect balance of creamy cheese sauce, tender macaroni, and a golden-baked crust.
What Makes Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese So Special?
Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese stands out because of its blend of cheeses, including Parmesan, Cheddar, and Romano. The result is a flavor profile that’s both tangy and savory. It’s baked to perfection, giving it that signature crispy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta below.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Mac and Cheese
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded, ensuring a smoother sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the macaroni as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Layer the Cheese: For a more authentic Chick-fil-A taste, layer a combination of Parmesan and Romano on top for that signature crust.
- Add a Dash of Mustard Powder: This secret ingredient enhances the cheese flavor without overpowering it.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Protein Boost: Mix in cooked chicken or crumbled bacon for a hearty main dish.
- Veggie Twist: Stir in steamed broccoli or roasted cauliflower to add some greens.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and a cornstarch slurry instead of a flour roux.
How to Serve Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese
This dish is versatile and pairs well with:
- Classic Southern Sides: Coleslaw, fried chicken, or cornbread.
- BBQ Favorites: Ribs, pulled pork, or brisket make excellent companions.
- Standalone Meal: Add a fresh garden salad or roasted veggies for a balanced plate.
How to Store and Reheat Mac and Cheese
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Heat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
Recipe FAQs
1. What kind of cheese does Chick-fil-A use?
Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese is made with a blend of Cheddar, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses, giving it its distinct flavor and creamy texture.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
3. How do I get the crispy crust on top?
Sprinkle a generous layer of cheese on top and bake uncovered. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
4. Can I freeze mac and cheese?
While it’s best fresh, mac and cheese can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese
Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese - This Southern-inspired side dish has quickly become a fan favorite, delivering the perfect balance of creamy cheese sauce, tender macaroni, and a golden-baked crust.
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
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and boil for 20 minutes (yes, 20 minutes for extra-soft noodles). Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, salt, and paprika until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk, a little at a time, ensuring it thickens before adding more.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk with a spoonful of the hot milk mixture to temper it. Stir the yolk mixture back into the sauce.
- Tear the American cheese into pieces and add to the sauce. Stir in half of the cheddar and all the Italian blend cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently until fully coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top. Broil until the cheese is golden and bubbly—watch it closely to avoid burning!
- Serve immediately while hot and creamy. This dish is pure comfort food bliss!
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 551Total Fat 37gSaturated Fat 21gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 130mgSodium 1057mgCarbohydrates 27gFiber 1gSugar 5gProtein 26g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Whether you’re recreating Chick-fil-A mac and cheese for nostalgia or simply craving its creamy goodness, this recipe delivers. It’s indulgent, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or solo comfort food sessions.
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