Chick-fil-A is famous for more than just their tasty chicken sandwiches, they are also known for their next level customer service. But one of the side dishes that swept people off their feet was their mac and cheese with a creamy consistency. The perfect ratio of melty cheeses covered with a slightly crispy golden coat equals soul-soothing comfort food. We will never now the exact recipe but you can make your version of it at home.
This recipe combines a few different cheeses to mimic that lusciously creamy texture that fans love. Whether you serve it as a side dish or by itself, this home made version is guaranteed to make you smile. Now let s get into how to make this yummy dish!
Ingredients:
We knew in order to recreate Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese as accurately as possible, we would need a blend of different cheeses that melt well AND offer great flavor. While theirs calls for cheddar, Parmesan and Romano, this one adds some mozzarella and American cheese to give it a touch more creaminess and depth of flavor.
Ground or Diced Turkey — to be used in place of a protein1 lb elbow macaroni: hold sauce well.
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese -keeping it in the family adds rich tangy depth.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese — melts well, so good for adding creamy texture
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded — The parmesan brings in a nutty, umami flavor.
1/2 C American Cheese (or Velveeta): This will melt down into a creamy, silky sauce for us.
2 Cups Whole Milk: gives you the perfect sauce.
1 cup of heavy cream: (to add body to the sauce)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, to make the base of the roux.
1/4 c flour – to thicken the sauce.
Season salt and pepper: Flavors to push the dish over the top.
Paprika or smoked paprika (optional, for color & subtle kick)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the elbow macaroni and cook until you reach an al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside. Do not over cook the pasta as once you bake it will absorb even more sauce.
2. Make the Roux:
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes more (this will give it a nice golden color but also help take the raw taste out). Just be careful it does not brown too much.
3. Add Milk and Cream:
Whisk the in whole milk and heavy cream. Remove from heat and still mix well until the sauce thickens, for about 5 mins. It’s done when it will coat the spoon, but still pour as well. Be sure to lower the heat to a medium-low on this step.
4. Melt in the Cheeses:
Slowly add the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan and American cheese. Stir constantly until each cheese added has completely melted, before adding the next. Whisk in sauce should be smooth and creamy.
5. Season to Taste:
Taste and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Keep in mind that the cheeses are very salty (especially Parmesan) so adjust for this.
6. Combine with the Pasta:
Then pour the cheese sauce onto the drained pasta and gently mix to coat all of the pasta. Also check that consistency of the sauce, it should be clinging together well in a not too runny but also not too thickly.
7. Optional: Broil for a Crisp Top
If you want a golden, bubbly top place your mac and cheese in a broiler-safe dish. Top with more cheddar cheese and broil 2 – 3 minutes until bubbly and golden. Turn the potatoes every now and then: you do not want them to burn!
8. Serve and Garnish:
When the top is golden brown, remove from the broiler. Top with either paprika or smoked paprika for some extra taste and color. Serve hot and enjoy!
My Chick-fil-A-Inspired mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy and delicious for any meal of the day. But you can enjoy that same decadent satisfaction with preparation as a side dish for a gathering or cozy weeknight dinner. And the top is broiled, although that part is also optional but what a factor you will see! Enjoy
