Description
This Chick-fil-A inspired Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings. Featuring tender elbow macaroni bathed in a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and Parmesan, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy meal at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Prepare the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked to al dente, drain well and set aside.
- Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter until fully melted and bubbling slightly.
- Create the roux: Stir in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour with the melted butter and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns lightly browned and fragrant. This will help thicken your cheese sauce.
- Add milk gradually: Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue stirring and cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Melt the cheeses: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until all the cheese has melted smoothly into the sauce.
- Season the sauce: Add 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder to the cheese sauce. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Combine macaroni and cheese sauce: Add the drained elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese.
- Serve warm: Transfer the mac and cheese to serving bowls or plates and enjoy immediately while warm and gooey.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, use whole milk or add a splash of cream.
- You can substitute sharp cheddar with a blend of cheddar and Colby jack for a different flavor profile.
- To make ahead, prepare the sauce and pasta separately, combine before reheating gently on stovetop.
- Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can give a subtle smoky or spicy kick.
- Use gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free version.
