Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese: 5 Irresistible Comfort Bites

If you’ve ever found yourself sitting in the Chick-fil-A drive-thru thinking, “I could eat an entire tray of that mac and cheese,” trust me… you’re in very good company. Today, we’re bringing that same ooey-gooey comfort straight into your kitchen with this Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese recipe—creamy, nostalgic, and absolutely soul-soothing.

As a busy mom, friend, or full-time superhero (because honestly, most of us are juggling three lives at once), sometimes you just need a dish that brings instant joy. This one does exactly that. It’s the kind of recipe you whip out when the day has been long, the kids are hungry, and you want something that makes you feel warm and taken care of.

And because I’m Aneta—your chicken-loving, comfort-food-obsessed kitchen buddy—you know I’ve tested this recipe enough times to share all the best tips with you.

Why You’ll Love This Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese

Let’s be honest: Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese is the Beyoncé of fast-food sides. It’s smooth, it’s golden, it’s creamy, and it never disappoints. Making it at home means you get:

  • Real comfort without the drive-thru line
  • Simple ingredients you probably already have
  • A silky cheese sauce that clings to every noodle
  • A satisfying bake that gives you that iconic golden crust

And the best part? This recipe is totally doable even on those “I can’t even think straight” kind of evenings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s your quick shopping (or pantry-raiding) list for the best homemade Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese:

  • Elbow macaroni – the classic shape that hugs cheese like a champ
  • Sharp cheddar cheese – for that bold, tangy flavor
  • Monterey Jack cheese – melts like a dream
  • Whole milk – for extra creaminess
  • Butter – because flavor
  • All-purpose flour – thickens the sauce to perfection
  • Salt and pepper – don’t skip seasoning; it makes or breaks the dish

(Full measurements go in the recipe card below—no surprises.)

How to Make Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese (Step-by-Step)

1. Create the Cheese Sauce Base

In a medium saucepan, melt your butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly and smells delicious. Stir in your flour to form a soft roux and cook for 2 minutes until it turns slightly golden. This little step adds big flavor.

2. Add the Milk Slowly

Pour in the milk gradually while whisking. Take your time—not because I want to torture you, but because this prevents those mystery lumps that like to show up uninvited. Let it cook for about 5–7 minutes until thick enough to coat a spoon.

3. Add the Cheeses

Turn off the heat and stir in sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack until smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste. As I always say: season now so you don’t regret later!

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Stir your cooked macaroni into that magical cheesy sauce. Fold gently, making sure every elbow gets coated in love… I mean cheese.

5. Bake for Golden Goodness (Optional)

Transfer to a greased baking dish, bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, and let the top get bubbly and a little browned—just like Chick-fil-A’s iconic finish.

Pro tip: this is where the magic happens, so don’t skip unless you’re really hungry.

Tips for the Best Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese

🔸 Use whole milk. Skim milk tries its best, but this recipe deserves richness.
🔸 Don’t rush the roux. Those 2 minutes give the sauce its flavor.
🔸 Shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded works, but fresh melts smoother.
🔸 Taste as you go. A little extra salt can transform the entire dish.
🔸 Worried your sauce looks too thick? It’ll thin out once mixed with the pasta—happens to me every time.

A quick personal moment: I made this mac and cheese for a family gathering once, and my kids—who normally treat new dishes like strangers—devoured every spoonful. Ever since, this recipe has become my “please-be-quiet-for-five-minutes” lifesaver. Moms, I know you feel me.

Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese with a golden melted cheese crust and creamy sauce stretching from the noodles.
This Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese features a bubbling golden top, stretchy cheese, and ultra-creamy sauce in every bite.

FAQs About Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese

Can I make Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prep it, refrigerate it, then bake when ready. Add a splash of milk if reheating.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! While cheddar and Monterey Jack give that signature flavor, Colby Jack or Gouda can step in beautifully.

Does this taste like real Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese?

Very close—and honestly, even creamier. The homemade version has that fresh, straight-from-the-oven taste Chick-fil-A just can’t beat.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a bit of milk to revive its creaminess.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yep—just use gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

A Final Note from My Kitchen to Yours

If comfort had a flavor, it would be this Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese. Creamy, warm, cheesy, and easy enough for even the wildest weeknight, this dish brings joy straight to the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, tired coworkers, or just your fabulous self, this recipe has your back—every single time.

Now go on… grab that cheese, melt that butter, and let your kitchen smell like pure happiness.

You’ve got this, and I’m cheering you on from my own bustling, chicken-filled kitchen.

More Delicious Recipes You’ll Love

If this Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese brought comfort, joy, and maybe even a little happy dance to your kitchen, I’ve got even more recipes you’ll want to dive into next. These dishes pair beautifully with creamy, cozy meals—or stand on their own when you want something equally satisfying.

Feel free to explore these whenever you want to add a little extra magic to your dinner rotation. Your next favorite dish might be just one click away!

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Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese served on a white plate with a golden, bubbly cheese topping and creamy sauce.

Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese


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  • Author: Aneta
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x

Description

This creamy Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese copycat tastes just like the real thing—rich, cheesy, and topped with a bubbly golden crust. It’s the ultimate comforting side dish that comes together easily with simple ingredients.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni

  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

  • 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

  • 4 cups whole milk

  • 1/2 cup butter

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp salt (more to taste)

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • Optional: parsley and paprika for garnish


Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.

  2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Add the flour and whisk for 2 minutes until lightly golden.

  3. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 5–7 minutes until thick enough to coat a spoon.

  4. Remove from heat and stir in the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack until smooth and melted. Season with salt and pepper.

  5. Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and fold until fully coated.

  6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish (optional), top with extra cheese if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

  7. Garnish with parsley or paprika and serve warm.

Notes

For maximum creaminess, shred your own cheese—pre-shredded doesn’t melt as smoothly.

Add a splash of milk when reheating to bring the sauce back to life.

Skipping the bake keeps it extra creamy; baking gives that signature golden crust.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop + Optional Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 690 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg

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