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Copycat Chick-fil-A Mac & Cheese

A red cup filled with Copycat Chick-fil-A Mac & Cheese topped with golden, melted cheddar cheese.

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This copycat Chick-fil-A mac & cheese recipe recreates the rich, creamy, golden-topped comfort food favorite at home using a blend of cheeses, whole milk, and egg yolk. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and even better than the original.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 8 slices American cheese
  • 16 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (divided)
  • 1 cup Italian blend cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Preheat a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the macaroni for 20 minutes.
  2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  3. In a separate pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
  4. Whisk in flour, salt, and paprika to create a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring smoothness before adding more.
  6. In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with a spoonful of the hot milk mixture and whisk quickly.
  7. Add the egg yolk mixture back into the milk mixture and whisk to combine.
  8. Reduce heat to low and add torn American cheese, half the cheddar, and all of the Italian blend cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
  9. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently stir to combine.
  10. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  11. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
  12. Broil until the top is golden brown. Do not walk away while broiling to avoid burning.
  13. Remove from oven and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Cook pasta for 20 minutes to keep the final dish creamy.
  • Use whole milk only—do not substitute with low-fat or plant-based options.
  • Shred your own cheese for best melt and flavor.
  • Broil carefully—cheese can burn quickly.
  • Dish can be halved or frozen for later use.

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