Irresistible Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe Delight Recipe

Introduction

This Irresistible Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic that’s easy to make at home. With a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, it delivers rich flavor and a smooth texture that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until golden to create a roux.
3. Step 3: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Step 5: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing until well coated.
6. Step 6 (optional): For a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for a more complex flavor.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a little cream cheese or sour cream with the cheeses.
• To keep the top crispy, sprinkle some breadcrumbs before baking.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?

Yes, pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or cavatappi work well and hold cheese sauce nicely.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make the roux gluten-free. Be sure to use gluten-free pasta as well.

Irresistible Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe Delight Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 122 reviews

This Irresistible Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe Delight offers a creamy, cheesy comfort food experience with a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Enhanced by a buttery roux and finished in the oven for an optional golden, bubbly top, this dish is a nostalgic and satisfying side or main that’s simple to prepare and ideal for family dinners.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Comfort Food
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Macaroni

• 1 cup elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook Macaroni: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside to prepare the cheese sauce.
2. Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and forms a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
3. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency.
4. Melt Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until every piece is well coated.
6. Optional Baking for Crispy Top: For a golden, bubbly crust, transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until the top is slightly browned and bubbly.

Notes

• Use sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for the best creamy and flavorful cheese blend.
• Make sure to cook the macaroni until just al dente to avoid overcooking in the oven.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.
• Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper carefully since cheese adds saltiness.
• The baking step is optional but highly recommended for a delicious crunchy top.

Keywords: buttery goodness, cheesy pasta, comfort food, creamy recipe, easy side dish, family dinner, mac and cheese