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how to make Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Copycat

Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Copycat

There’s something magical about a bowl of creamy, cheesy macaroni. To me, it’s comfort food at its finest.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 410 kcal

Equipment

  • Pot 
  • Cup

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound elbow pasta: The classic shape that holds onto all that creamy goodness.
  • 8 slices processed American cheese: This is what adds that iconic creaminess.
  • ¼ cup plain all-purpose flour: To thicken the cheese sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt: A must for enhancing flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional: Adds a hint of warmth, but feel free to leave it out if you prefer.
  • 16 ounces freshly shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese divided: The star of the show—sharp cheddar makes all the difference.
  • 2 cups whole milk warmed: This helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture.
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter: Because butter makes everything better.
  • 1 egg yolk lightly beaten: Acts as a binder for a richer flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend: For multi-dimensional cheesy goodness.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A subtle tang enhances the overall depth of flavor.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Once it's bubbling like a hot spring, add your elbow pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. A little bite is key! Drain and return it to the pot.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

  • In a separate pot, melt your butter over medium heat. Once it’s beautifully melted, whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to cook off the raw taste.
  • Slowly add the warmed milk while continuing to whisk. This will help prevent lumps from forming. Add salt, smoked paprika, and stir until the sauce thickens.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

  • Toss in the processed American cheese and half of the shredded extra sharp cheddar into the sauce. Keep stirring until everything is perfectly melted and incorporated. The sauce should be ultra-creamy and inviting.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  • Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and mix it gently until all the pasta is well-coated. It’s a good idea to have a taste test here. Is it cheesy enough for you? Adjust accordingly by adding a bit more salt or cheese.

Step 5: Final Touches

  • Stir in the beaten egg yolk and the remaining sharp cheddar and the Italian cheese blend. This step adds richness to the dish. Make sure everything is well combined.

Step 6: Bake It (Optional)

  • If you prefer a baked mac and cheese, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with a little extra cheddar and pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Notes

  • Pasta Choice: Elbow pasta is traditional, but feel free to experiment with shells or cavatappi for a fun texture.
  • Cheese Variety: Don’t skimp on the cheese quality. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
  • Make it Smoky: Adding smoked paprika gives a unique flavor that elevates the dish. Use it if you’re feeling adventurous!
  • Creaminess Control: For an ultra-creamy dish, consider adding more milk if the sauce seems too thick.
    Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to add garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 410kcalCarbohydrates: 51gProtein: 18gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 850mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g
Keyword Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Copycat
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