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Copycat Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese

Copycat Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese
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Chick-fil-A’s Mac and Cheese is a baked, extra-cheesy, and creamy pasta dish made with a blend of cheddar, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses. It has a rich, velvety cheese sauce and a golden-baked cheesy topping for the perfect balance of creaminess and cheesiness.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

    • 12 oz elbow macaroni (or cavatappi pasta) – The classic shape for mac and cheese.

    • 6 cups water – For boiling the pasta.

    • 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the pasta’s flavor.

For the Cheese Sauce:

    • 2 cups whole milk – The base for the creamy sauce.

    • 1 cup heavy cream – Adds richness.

    • ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick) – For a smooth and silky texture.

    • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce.

    • ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the cheese flavor.

    • ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of spice.

For the Cheese Blend:

    • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded) – The main cheese for bold flavor.

    • 1 cup white American cheese (shredded or deli slices) – Adds creaminess.

    • ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated) – Adds depth of flavor.

    • ½ cup Romano cheese (grated) – Brings a sharp, nutty taste.

    • ½ cup Colby Jack cheese (for topping) – Melts beautifully for a golden crust.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

    1. Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.

    1. Add 1 teaspoon salt and elbow macaroni, cooking according to package instructions (about 8 minutes) until al dente.

    1. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

    1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.

    1. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.

    1. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.

    1. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken (about 3–4 minutes).

    1. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar, white American, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses.

    1. Add salt and black pepper, stirring until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

    1. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.

    1. Transfer to a buttered baking dish.

Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping

    1. Sprinkle Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top.

    1. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

    • Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

    • Scoop onto plates and enjoy the gooey, cheesy deliciousness!

Find it online: https://cookingwithadan.com/copycat-chick-fil-a-mac-and-cheese/