Dinner

Tasty Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese Recipe

BySarah Summers December 26, 2025December 26, 2025

Introduction

This Tasty Chick Fil A Mac and Cheese is a rich, creamy comfort dish that combines tender elbow macaroni with a luscious blend of cheeses. With a golden, bubbly crust on top, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into making this irresistible homemade version.

A close-up of a single-serving white round paper cup filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, showing three visible layers: a base of tender elbow macaroni in pale yellow cheese sauce, a middle layer of thicker melted cheddar cheese with a smooth texture, and a top layer that is golden brown and bubbly with crispy spots from broiling. The paper cup’s outside is red, and it is sitting on a red and white checkered cloth over a white marbled surface. The edges of the macaroni peek just above the rim of the cup, and the cheese top looks shiny and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni
1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
8 oz extra sharp cheddar cheese, grated (freshly grated for best melt, divided)
1/8 tsp paprika
8 slices American cheese, torn
1/4 cup butter (preferably unsalted Kerrygold)
1 egg yolk
1 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 20 minutes until very tender. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add flour, salt, and paprika, whisking constantly to form a smooth roux. Cook about 1 minute without browning.
Step 3: Slowly whisk in milk, adding a little at a time to prevent lumps. Continue whisking over medium heat until sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. In a small bowl, whisk egg yolk. Temper the yolk by adding a spoonful of hot sauce while whisking quickly, then stir yolk mixture back into sauce.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low. Gradually add torn American cheese, half of the grated cheddar, and all Italian blend cheese. Stir continuously until fully melted and sauce is creamy.
Step 5: Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until noodles are evenly coated.
Step 6: Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining grated cheddar evenly over the top. Broil until cheese topping is browned and bubbly—watch carefully to avoid burning. Rotate dish if needed for even browning.
Step 7: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy mac and cheese!

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and creamier texture.
Tempering the egg yolk carefully prevents curdling and keeps the sauce smooth and custard-like.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
Try topping with panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter for added crunch instead of extra cheese.

Storage

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

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white round container filled with creamy macaroni and cheese baked to golden brown perfection. The dish has one visible layer: a top layer of bubbly melted cheese that is bright yellow with darker brown spots where the cheese is caramelized and crispy. The macaroni beneath is creamy and soft, partly visible at the edges under the cheese crust. The container sits on a red and white checkered fabric that adds a cozy feel. The whole scene has a warm and inviting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with shells, rotini, or another small pasta shape that holds cheese sauce well.

Why do you cook the macaroni longer than usual?

Cooking the macaroni for 20 minutes makes it very tender, which helps it finish cooking perfectly in the creamy cheese sauce and results in a smoother, more comforting texture.