If you’re a fan of Chick Fil A’s creamy and cheesy macaroni, you’re in for a treat! This Copycat Chick Fil A Macaroni and Cheese recipe brings that comforting, velvety goodness straight to your kitchen. Imagine a bowl filled with tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce, perfect for pairing with your favorite fried chicken or enjoying as a meal on its own. With this easy recipe, you can recreate that restaurant-style dish anytime you crave it.
Why It Deserves a Spot
Macaroni and cheese has long been a staple of comfort food, and when it comes to fast food versions, Chick Fil A has raised the bar. Their mac and cheese is not just a side dish; it’s a full-on experience with its creamy texture and rich flavor. What makes this recipe special is that it captures the essence of that beloved dish while allowing you to control the ingredients and customize it to your taste. Plus, who doesn’t love a homemade version of their favorite fast food?
What You’ll Need
To whip up this delicious Copycat Chick Fil A Macaroni and Cheese, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (sliced into pats)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon table salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups Colby Jack cheese (freshly shredded, divided into 1 1/2 cups and 1/2 cup)
- 1 cup gouda cheese (freshly shredded)
- 1 cup American cheese (freshly shredded)
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (freshly shredded)
What’s in the Gear List
Before you get started, make sure you have the right tools on hand:
- Large pot for boiling the macaroni
- Whisk for combining ingredients smoothly
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
- Large mixing bowl for assembling the final dish
- Baking dish for the oven (optional, for a baked version)
Copycat Chick Fil A Macaroni and Cheese: Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to recreate that creamy goodness? Follow these simple steps!
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the dry elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, typically around 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste, known as a roux.
Step 3: Add Dairy
Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Stir in the salt, white pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. The aroma will be heavenly!
Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese
Remove the pot from heat and gradually mix in the Colby Jack, gouda, American, and parmesan cheeses, reserving 1/2 cup of the Colby Jack for topping later. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: Combine with Macaroni
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 7: Bake (Optional)
If you prefer a baked version, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle the reserved Colby Jack cheese on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This Copycat Chick Fil A Macaroni and Cheese pairs perfectly with fried chicken or can be enjoyed on its own.
Seasonal Adaptations
Feel free to get creative with your Copycat Chick Fil A Macaroni and Cheese by trying out these seasonal adaptations:
- Spring: Add blanched asparagus or peas for a fresh touch.
- Summer: Mix in some diced tomatoes and basil for a burst of flavor.
- Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist.
- Winter: Stir in some cooked and crumbled sausage for a hearty meal.
Errors to Dodge
To ensure your Copycat Chick Fil A Macaroni and Cheese turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland macaroni.
- Overcooking the pasta can result in mushy macaroni.
- Using pre-shredded cheese can yield a gritty texture due to added anti-caking agents.
- Skipping the roux step can lead to a watery cheese sauce.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you find yourself with leftovers (though we doubt it!), here’s how to handle them:
Store any remaining Copycat Chick Fil A Macaroni and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. This dish also freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Just ensure to keep the proportions similar for the best texture and flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. The cheese sauce will still be delicious!
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Cooked chicken, bacon, or even ground turkey can be incorporated to make this dish heartier and more filling.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you love a kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. You can also use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
Looking for more easy and delicious recipes? Check out these options:
Wrap-Up
Recreating your favorite fast food dish at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to customize every bite. This Copycat Chick Fil A Macaroni and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star of the show, it’s bound to be a hit with family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!
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Copycat Chick Fil A Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the dry elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, typically around 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste, known as a roux.
- Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the salt, white pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. The aroma will be heavenly!
- Remove the pot from heat and gradually mix in the Colby Jack, gouda, American, and parmesan cheeses, reserving 1/2 cup of the Colby Jack for topping later. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
- If you prefer a baked version, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle the reserved Colby Jack cheese on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
- This dish freezes well; portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
