Irresistible Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe Delight Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until every piece is well coated.
- 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