Perfect Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese

Name: Perfect Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Author: Emily

Published: 19 June 2025

Updated: 13 January 2026

why make this recipe

I love a dish that feels like a hug. This mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and easy. It hits that Chick-fil-A comfort without the drive-thru. I sometimes serve it alongside a savory main like dill pickle ranch smash chicken tacos for a fun weeknight combo.

how to make Perfect Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:
8 ounces elbow macaroni, 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 cup milk, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Perfect Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese

Directions:

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in the milk.
Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until melted.
Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and stir to coat.
Serve warm and enjoy your creamy mac and cheese!

I like to fold the cheese sauce into the pasta while both are hot. The sauce sticks better that way. If you want extra silkiness, add a splash more milk.

how to serve Perfect Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese

Serve this straight from the pot. Add a sprinkle of extra cheddar on top if you like. For a full meal, pair it with a bright salad or something smoky like BBQ chicken quesadillas. Kids love it warm and cheesy. Adults do, too.

how to store Perfect Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese

Cool the mac to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat. Stir in a splash of milk to revive the creaminess. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F covered for 15–20 minutes.

tips to make Perfect Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt. Pre-shredded cheese can be drier. Don’t skip the roux. It gives you a smooth sauce. If your sauce gets too thick, whisk in a little more milk until it loosens up. For a quick dessert after dinner, try a simple sweet treat like the 5-minute cottage cheese cinnamon roll mug cake.

variation (if any)

Add a pinch of smoked paprika for warmth. Stir in cooked bacon for crunch. Mix in steamed broccoli for a veggie boost. You can also swap half the cheddar for gouda for a smoky twist. If you want a totally different vibe, serve this alongside the sweet rolls from Grandma’s strawberry cheesecake cinnabon rolls for a brunch spread.

FAQs

Q: Can I use milk alternatives?
A: Yes. Use unsweetened almond or oat milk. The sauce may taste a bit different. Use the same amount.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make it a day ahead. Reheat slowly on the stove and add a splash of milk when warming.

Q: Can I bake it with a breadcrumb topping?
A: Absolutely. Transfer to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and butter. Bake at 375°F for 12–15 minutes until golden.

Perfect Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese

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