If there’s one fast food spot I can’t resist, it’s Chick-fil-A. Anytime we’re treating ourselves, it’s usually our top pick. But when the craving hits and we’d rather stay in (or save a little cash), we turn to this homemade version of their famous mac and cheese.
This recipe has been our go-to for a while now, and after plenty of trial runs, we’ve finally nailed the flavor and creamy texture that mirrors the original perfectly. It’s everything you want in a comfort food dish—rich, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Not only does this copycat recipe taste just like the real deal, but it’s also super quick to whip up and made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. It’s our top pick whenever we want something cozy and delicious, without making a trip out.
Why You’ll Love This Mac and Cheese:
- It’s ready in around 30 minutes.
- Uses easy-to-find ingredients.
- Makes a big batch perfect for sharing with the whole family.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
(Full ingredient amounts and instructions are at the bottom in the recipe card)
- Elbow macaroni
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Paprika
- Whole milk
- Egg yolk
- American cheese
- Extra sharp cheddar cheese
- Italian cheese blend
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and boil for 20 minutes (yes, a full 20—this is important!). Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a separate large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, salt, and paprika until smooth. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly until thickened (about 1-2 minutes).
Temper the egg yolk: In a small bowl, place the egg yolk. Add a spoonful of the hot sauce to the yolk while whisking, then stir the tempered yolk mixture back into the sauce.
Melt the cheese: Lower the heat and start adding cheese. Tear up the American cheese slices and add them first, followed by half of the shredded cheddar and all of the Italian blend. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
Combine: Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
Bake and broil: Transfer everything to a 9×13-inch baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top. Broil until the cheese on top is just golden and bubbly—watch closely so it doesn’t burn!
Serve and enjoy: Once the top is golden, remove from the oven and serve hot.
Why Cook Pasta for 20 Minutes?
It sounds strange, but cooking the pasta longer than usual is key to this recipe’s creamy texture. Overcooked pasta soaks up less sauce, keeping the dish rich and gooey instead of dry.
Best Cheeses to Use
We go with a trio of American cheese, sharp cheddar, and an Italian blend. The Italian mix usually includes parmesan and romano, which gives the dish a flavor profile close to Chick-fil-A’s version. You can experiment, but this blend really nails it.
Whole Milk – A Must!
Whole milk is non-negotiable here. It gives the sauce its creamy consistency. Using low-fat milk might make the sauce thinner and less rich.
Optional Add-ins to Try:
Feeling creative? Here are some tasty ways to level it up:
- Add grated parmesan or romano for a nutty finish.
- Stir in a handful of white cheddar for extra cheesy depth.
- Pair with crispy nuggets or waffle fries for a full-on Chick-fil-A dupe.
- Drizzle with avocado lime ranch for a zesty contrast.
- Sprinkle on some black pepper or chili flakes for a kick.
- Mix in a splash of heavy cream for extra richness.
- Crumble in cooked bacon for a savory twist.
- Sautéed onions or spinach can add depth and a pop of green.
- Top with breadcrumbs before broiling for a golden crunch.
Substitutions That Work:
Make it your own with these easy swaps:
- Use 2% milk or a milk alternative if you’re okay with a less creamy texture.
- Gouda or Colby Jack can stand in for American cheese.
- Try shells or rotini if you’re out of elbow pasta—just remember to overcook them like we mentioned!
- Heavy cream instead of milk? Use a little less flour.
- Want it lighter? Reduced-fat cheese and skipping the broiled top can help.
How to Store Leftovers:
Fridge: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
To Reheat: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven or microwave until hot.
Tips and Tricks:
- This recipe yields a lot, so cut it in half if you don’t need a full tray.
- Whole milk is crucial—don’t swap it out.
- Always shred cheese from a block for the best melt.
- You must cook the pasta for 20 minutes for the creamiest texture.
- Stick to the cheese blend for that signature flavor.
- Freezes well—check above for how to store it properly.
Love recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home?
Then you’ll definitely want to try this Chick-fil-A-inspired mac and cheese. It’s warm, cheesy, and downright addictive.
Give it a go and let me know how it turns out—your taste buds will thank you!