Copycat Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese

The Copycat Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese is a favorite among customers. It’s made from a combination of cheddar and parmesan with a creamy base. The golden, crispy topping is the cherry on top. This homemade version is perfect for serving as a side dish at a dinner party or a get-together. It brings all the flavors that you love.

Ingredients you’ll need:

• 1 pound elbow pasta (or any other pasta shape that you like)
• 2 cups of whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• Butter 1 tablespoon
• Add 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for an extra kick.
• Taste salt and pepper
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella (for topping)
• Panko breadcrumbs (optional): 1/2 cup
• 1 tablespoon of butter (for topping).

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. How to Cook Pasta

Cook the elbow macaroni following the instructions on the package. Cook it until it is al dente but not too firm. It will continue to cook when it is mixed with the sauce. Drain and set aside the pasta.

2. How to make the cheese sauce:

Melt butter in a large pot or saucepan over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and milk once it has melted. Mix everything until it is thoroughly combined. Stir the mixture occasionally over medium heat until it starts to steam but does not boil.

3. Add the cream cheese:

Add the cream cheese once the milk has been heated. Stir until cream cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth.

4. Add Cheese:

Add the mozzarella, parmesan, and sharp cheddar cheese slowly. Stir continuously to ensure that the cheese melts evenly and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Garlic powder, salt and pepper can be added to taste. Stirring constantly will prevent the sauce from clumping. Cook for 3-5 minutes, until sauce has thickened.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the elbow macaroni cooked to the pot once the cheese sauce has become creamy and smooth. Stir the mixture to ensure that all pasta is covered in the cheese sauce. Add a bit more milk if the mixture is too thick.

6. Crispy Topping Optional:

Preheat your oven to 350degF/175degC for the crispy signature topping. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish. Melt butter in a small bowl and combine it with panko breadcrumbs. Spread the breadcrumbs with butter evenly over the macaroni and cheese. Top it with a handful of mozzarella cheese shredded to get that golden crust.

Bake the dish for 15-20 minutes or until it is golden brown.

7. Serve:

Let the mac and cheese sit for a couple of minutes after removing it from the oven. As it cools down, the sauce will become thicker. This gives you the perfect texture.

Serving Suggestions

• As a side dish, Chick-fil-A -Mac and Cheese is the perfect accompaniment to fried poultry, sandwiches or salads. Combine it with your favorite dish for a comforting, indulgent side.
• You can also add it to grilled meats such as chicken or steak, which will give the dish a creamy and rich balance.
• As a main course, This mac and cheese is a great option for those who want a warm, cheesy meal.

Mac and cheese: Tips to make it perfect

• Do not overcook your pasta. Once you add the sauce, the pasta will absorb it. Overcooking will result in mushy macaroni and cheese.
• Avoid pre-shredded cheese. It contains anti-caking agents, which can cause clumping. Freshly grated, melted cheese makes a better sauce.
• You can control the creaminess. If you like a richer macaroni and cheese, add more heavy cream or cream cheese. You can adjust the milk proportions to your liking.
• Make it Ahead. You can prepare the mac and cheese in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven, adding a little extra cheese and butter.

Last Thoughts

This Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Copycat is a delicious way to make a creamy, comforting dish at home. It’s a sure-fire hit at any meal with its blend of cheeses and velvety sauce. This mac and cheese is perfect as a side dish to any meal.

Make this delicious, creamy mac and cheese. It’s as good (if you ask me) as Chick-fil-A’s original