Description
A creamy, rich copycat Chick-fil-A style mac and cheese made with a blend of cheeses and baked for a golden, bubbly finish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded American cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Romano cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar, American, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- Transfer to an oven-safe dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest texture.
- American cheese helps achieve the signature smoothness.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end if you want a darker top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
