Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese (Copycat Recipe)

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If you love Chick-fil-A’s creamy, cheesy mac and cheese, you’ve got to try this copycat Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese recipe! This easy copycat recipe lets you recreate the same delicious comfort food at home—no drive-thru required. It’s rich, creamy, and finished with a golden baked topping. Perfect as a side dish or a stand-alone meal and always a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with real, everyday ingredients
• Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying—just like the Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese you know and love
• Easy to prep ahead for weeknight dinners or gatherings
• Kid-friendly and great for picky eaters

Ingredients

For the cheese sauce:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Colby-Jack cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the pasta:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni

For the topping:

• ¼ cup shredded cheddar (extra sharp)
• ¼ cup Colby-Jack cheese
• Optional: pinch of paprika for color

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, Colby-Jack, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
6. Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.
7. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
8. Top with remaining cheese (and paprika, if using).
9. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is melted and slightly golden.
10. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Tips

• For an extra creamy mac and cheese, stir in a little more cream after baking.
• You can swap in Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy falvor!
• Don’t skip the oven step—it helps replicate that signature golden topping that Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese is known for.

Storage Instructions

Let the copycat Chick-Fil-A mac and cheese cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this copycat Chick-fil-A mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed—just add 5 extra minutes to the bake time.

What’s the best cheese to use?
A mix of sharp cheddar, Colby-Jack, and Parmesan gives a close match to the Chick-fil-A flavor, but feel free to experiment with others like gouda or fontina.

Can I freeze leftovers?
You can, but the texture may change slightly. If freezing, portion into single servings and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

More Comfort Food Recipes

• Easy Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers & Sauce Copycat Recipe
• How to Make Corn Nuggets
• No Bake Shepherd’s Pie (Stovetop)
• Easy Slumgullion Recipe (American Goulash)
• 30-Minute Instant Pot Meatballs Recipe with Gravy
• Swedish Potato Sausage (Värmlandskorv or Potatiskorv)

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If you make this copycat Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese recipe, please drop a comment below! I’d LOVE to know what you think! Or take a picture and share it on Instagram by tagging @dwellbymichelle so I can repost it on my stories!

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