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Chick Fil A Style Mac and Cheese

Chick Fil A Style Mac and Cheese
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This Easy Chick Fil A Style Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish reminiscent of the beloved fast food favorite. Made with simple ingredients like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and elbow macaroni, it’s perfect for cozy nights, quick meals, or family dinners. Adaptable and kid-approved, this homemade mac and cheese offers the perfect balance of rich flavors and smooth texture with a subtle smoky touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni

Cheeses

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Dairy

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Thickening & Seasoning

  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water for 7-8 minutes until just al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly while preparing the cheese sauce.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce Base: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour continuously to form a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes without browning to remove the raw flour taste.
  3. Add the Milk and Cream: Gradually pour in whole milk and heavy cream while whisking consistently to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  4. Incorporate the Cheese: Lower the heat and add shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted, smooth, and fully incorporated. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for the signature flavor.
  5. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and fold gently to coat every piece evenly in creamy cheese. Warm through and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may affect texture.
  • Cook pasta just right—al dente—to maintain a perfect bite that holds up in the sauce.
  • Whisk constantly when adding milk to prevent lumps and create a silky sauce.
  • Melt cheese slowly over low heat to avoid graininess or separation.
  • Add seasoning gradually, tasting as you go to balance salt, pepper, and smoked paprika flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, Chick Fil A style, creamy mac and cheese, easy comfort food, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/chick-fil-a-style-mac-and-cheese/