Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of mastering creamy, craveable Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese in your own kitchen, then you’re in for an absolute treat! This recipe combines a velvet-smooth cheese sauce, heaps of melty goodness, and that irresistible golden top—so you can skip the drive-thru and get all the rich, cheesy satisfaction right at home. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or sharing with friends at a potluck, this dish never disappoints.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things refreshingly simple by using classic, flavorful ingredients that all contribute to the luscious texture and vibrant taste. Every component matters here, building layers of cheesy depth and heavenly richness for the best Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese.

• Elbow pasta: The perfect shape to cradle cheese sauce in every bite, classic elbows give that nostalgic macaroni feel.
• Salted butter: Adds richness and creates the base for a silky roux that thickens your cheesy sauce.
• All-purpose flour: Whisks with butter to stabilize the cheese sauce and make it luxuriously creamy—no curdling here.
• Whole milk: Key for a rich, smooth texture—don’t skimp with lower fat options to keep things ultra-indulgent.
• Kosher salt: A pinch sharpens the cheesy flavors and enhances every bite.
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth that beautifully balances all the cheese.
• Shredded yellow cheddar cheese: This cheese gives color, a tangy kick, and that signature stretchy pull.
• Shredded white cheddar cheese: Brings a creamy, slightly sharp counterpoint to the sauce’s flavor profile.
• Processed American cheese slices: Cut into chunks, they melt into an ultra-smooth, gooey finish that’s signature to Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese.
• Grated parmesan cheese: Adds salty depth and a subtle nutty note for complexity.
• Grated romano cheese: Delivers a bolder, savory flavor that really pops amid all the creaminess.
• Additional shredded yellow cheddar cheese: This goes on top, creating a bubbly, golden crown during baking.
• Additional shredded white cheddar cheese: Melts and browns beautifully, making your topping even more irresistible.

How to Make Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉ so everything is ready to bake to perfection. Grab a 9×13-inch casserole or baking dish, give it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray, and set it aside—this will make serving (and cleanup) so much easier later on.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your elbow pasta and cook according to package directions, just until al dente—so it stays tender but not mushy. Drain well, but don’t rinse the noodles (you want the sauce to cling!), and set aside. Remember, the pasta will soften a bit more while baking.

Step 3: Make the Roux

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt your salted butter. Whisk in the flour to create a golden, bubbling roux. This forms the backbone of a creamy sauce. Keep whisking for two to three minutes to cook out any floury taste, ensuring the final mac and cheese is smooth as can be.

Step 4: Build the Cheese Sauce

Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps. Sprinkle in the kosher salt and black pepper. Let the mixture cook and thicken for about five minutes—stirring often—until it coats the back of a spoon. This is the moment where creamy dreams begin!

Step 5: Add the Cheeses

Now comes the best part: stir in your yellow cheddar, white cheddar, American cheese chunks, grated parmesan, and grated romano. Keep stirring as everything melts together into a glossy, decadent sauce. Don’t rush—let all the cheeses meld into one ultra-smooth, dreamy blend.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your just-cooked macaroni straight into the cheese sauce and fold gently so every noodle is thoroughly coated. Pour this glorious mix into your prepared baking dish. Scatter the remaining shredded cheddar and white cheddar cheeses generously over the top to create that toasty golden crust everyone craves.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish (uncovered) into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese is bubbly and hot throughout. For a crispier top, switch your oven to broil for the last few minutes, but keep a close eye—golden brown is perfect, but you don’t want it to scorch.

How to Serve Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Once out of the oven, you can make this mac and cheese shine with a few finishing touches. Try sprinkling on a little extra grated parmesan, freshly cracked black pepper, or some finely chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Each little flourish enhances both the look and flavor—making every serving extra inviting.

Side Dishes

This mac and cheese is a star all on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with crisp salads, smoky barbecue proteins, or even bright veggie sides like roasted broccoli or green beans. Think tangy coleslaw, grilled chicken, or oven-roasted veggies—anything to balance that creamy richness and round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Bring a playful twist to your Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese by scooping it into individual ramekins for easy, elegant servings. Or, serve it in a cast-iron skillet for rustic charm. Hosting a party? Try offering toppings like hot sauce, bacon bits, or toasted breadcrumbs so guests can customize every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool to room temperature and transfer to an airtight container. It’ll keep perfectly in the fridge for up to four days—just long enough for late-night cravings or next-day lunches.

Freezing

Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese can absolutely be frozen for longer storage! Portion into freezer-safe containers, let cool completely, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.

Reheating

To bring your leftovers back to life, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to help restore the cheesy creaminess. For larger batches, warm gently in a covered baking dish at 325℉ until piping hot. Avoid high heat, which can dry it out or make the cheese sauce separate.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, any short, sturdy pasta shape such as cavatappi, shells, or fusilli will soak up the cheese sauce beautifully and work just as well in this Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure a perfect texture.

What if I don’t have American cheese?

If you can’t find American cheese slices, substitute with more cheddar or even creamy Monterey Jack. The goal is a smooth melt and creamy finish, so choose a cheese known for melting well to keep that signature Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux. The flavor remains totally delicious and every bit as comforting.

How do I make it extra creamy?

For an even creamier result, add an extra splash of milk or a few small cubes of cream cheese when melting in the cheeses. Covering the macaroni with foil for half of the baking time can also help retain moisture in your Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Kids absolutely love this version! The ultra-creamy cheese sauce and familiar flavor make it a family favorite. For little ones, you could skip the black pepper and serve it just as is for the ultimate kid-approved comfort food.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy and crowd-pleasing, give this Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese a try. There’s truly nothing like pulling a bubbling, golden dish of homemade mac and cheese from the oven—and once you taste these creamy, cheesy flavors, you’ll want to make it again and again. Enjoy every bite!

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