Homemade Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese Recipe
This homemade Chick-fil-A mac and cheese recipe perfectly recreates the restaurant's famous creamy, cheesy side dish with a rich blend of American, parmesan, romano, and cheddar cheeses. Elbow macaroni gets coated in a velvety sauce made from heavy cream and milk, then baked with a golden, bubbly cheddar topping under the broiler. It's an easy, indulgent comfort food that's great as a side or main, ready in under an hour. The result is gooey, tangy, and spot-on flavorful, making it a family favorite that rivals the drive-thru version.
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Colander for draining
- Medium saucepan for the sauce
- Whisk for stirring
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Oven with broiler function
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni pasta
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 pound American cheese sliced or cubed
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated romano cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese for topping
- 1 teaspoon salt plus more for pasta water
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder optional, for subtle tang
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside while preparing the sauce—this prevents the noodles from sticking together.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and whole milk, heating until it just begins to simmer but not boil. Gradually add the American cheese slices, stirring constantly with a whisk until fully melted and smooth.
- Incorporate the grated parmesan and romano cheeses, along with the salt and optional mustard powder. Continue whisking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and all cheeses blend evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—the sauce should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. In the 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the cooked macaroni evenly across the bottom.
- Pour the warm cheese sauce over the pasta, using a spoon to mix gently until every noodle is coated. Ensure the sauce distributes well for consistent creaminess throughout.
Add Topping and Broil
- Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mac and cheese mixture. Place the dish under the broiler, about 4-6 inches from the heat source.
Notes
When preparing this recipe, use medium-low heat when melting the cheeses to avoid a grainy or separated sauce—patience is key for that ultra-smooth texture. Watch the dish closely under the broiler, as it can go from golden to burnt quickly depending on your oven. Freshly grated cheeses melt better than pre-shredded varieties, so grate your own if possible for the creamiest results. These tips will help you achieve that signature Chick-fil-A quality every time.