Chick-fil-A's mac and cheese is a beloved menu item at the popular fast food chain, known for its creamy, cheesy flavor and the perfect complement to their famous chicken sandwiches. If you're a fan of Chick-fil-A's mac and cheese and want to try making it at home, this recipe will give you the closest taste to the original.
Ingredients:
8 oz elbow macaroni
4 cups water
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Instructions:
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Bring the milk and water to a boil in a big pot.
In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for a further 1-2 minutes.
Slowly pour the boiling milk mixture into the butter and flour mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
The mixture should be heated to a boil, then simmer for two to three minutes, or until thickened.
Stir in the shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Chick-fil-A mac and cheese!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a side dish with Chick-fil-A's Original Chicken Sandwich
Top with crispy bacon or breadcrumbs for added texture
Mix in some diced chicken for a hearty meal
Variations:
Use different types of cheese such as Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor
Add some diced jalapenos or green chilies for a spicy twist
Mix in some diced cooked vegetables such as broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition
Here are some additional information that may be helpful when making the Chick-fil-A mac and cheese recipe at home:
The key to getting the perfect texture and flavor is to use whole milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Whole milk gives the sauce a rich and creamy texture, while cheddar cheese provides the signature sharp and tangy taste.
You can use any type of pasta you prefer, but elbow macaroni is the traditional choice and closest to the original recipe.
Be sure to whisk the milk mixture into the butter and flour mixture slowly, to prevent lumps from forming. Whisking constantly will also ensure that the sauce is smooth and lump-free.
To achieve the perfect consistency, bring the sauce to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Simmering the sauce for 2-3 minutes will thicken it and give it the right texture.
Garlic powder is a key ingredient in the recipe, as it adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the cheddar cheese. If you prefer more garlic flavor, you can add more garlic powder or even use fresh minced garlic instead.
You can adjust the seasoning to your liking.Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the amount of salt and pepper as needed.
For up to three days, leftovers can be kept in the fridge in an airtight container. To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and heat it for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
The recipe I provided is a close replica of the original, but you can always adjust the cheese to your liking. For example, you can use a combination of different types of cheese such as cheddar and gouda, or even add some parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor.
To add more creaminess to the sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream. This will give the mac and cheese a richer and more indulgent texture.
To make the mac and cheese more filling, you can add some diced or shredded cooked chicken or bacon. This will turn it into a complete meal that can be enjoyed on its own.
To make the mac and cheese healthier, you can add some vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach. These will add some nutrition and color to the dish.
To make the mac and cheese gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour.
To make the mac and cheese lower in fat, you can use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese.
The recipe calls for garlic powder, but you can also use fresh garlic. Mince 2 cloves of garlic and sauté them in butter before adding the flour, then proceed with the recipe as usual.
The mac and cheese can be prepared ahead of time and reheated later. To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and heat it for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Keep in mind that these tips and variations are just suggestions and you can always adjust the recipe to your preference. I hope you enjoy making and eating your homemade Chick-fil-A mac and cheese!
In conclusion, Chick-fil-A's mac and cheese is a delicious and creamy side dish that can now be made at home with this recipe. It's a perfect side dish for any occasion, and with the option of variations, you can make it your own. Give it a try, and you won't be disappointed!