Irresistible Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe Delight Recipe
This Irresistible Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic with a rich blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni is enveloped in a smooth cheese sauce made from a buttery roux and whole milk, then optionally baked to achieve a golden, bubbly top. A delicious side dish or satisfying main course, this easy recipe brings comfort food vibes to your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns golden, forming a roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Whisk in milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Optional baking step: For a crispy, golden top, transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned on top.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and flavor.
- For a lighter dish, substitute whole milk with 2% milk.
- To add extra flavor, consider mixing in a pinch of smoked paprika or mustard powder to the cheese sauce.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Baking step is optional but highly recommended for added texture.
Keywords: buttery goodness, cheesy pasta, comfort food, creamy recipe, easy side dish, family dinner, mac and cheese
