Irresistible Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

Introduction

The aroma of creamy, cheesy goodness fills the kitchen with this irresistible Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni blends with sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, creating a rich, comforting dish that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether served as a side or a main, this mac and cheese is sure to please all ages.

Ingredients

• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns golden, forming a roux.
3. Step 3: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Step 5: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing until the pasta is well coated.
6. Step 6 (optional): For a crispy top, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Tips & Variations

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor instead of pre-shredded varieties.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese when adding the milk.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle smoky or spicy twist.
• Top with breadcrumbs before baking for an added crunchy texture.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini work well and hold the cheese sauce nicely.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

You can freeze the mac and cheese in a suitable container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to maintain its creamy texture.

Irresistible Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 135 reviews

• Author: Andria
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This irresistible Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy delight with a perfect blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. The elbow macaroni is cooked al dente and enveloped in a rich, buttery cheese sauce made from a classic roux base. An optional baking step adds a golden, bubbly finish for a delightful contrast of textures, making this dish a comforting favorite perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 1 cup elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, approximately 7-8 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden color. This forms the base of the cheese sauce.
3. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk to the roux, ensuring no lumps form. Continue stirring the mixture frequently and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
4. Incorporate Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until they are completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, folding gently until every piece of pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
6. Optional Baking for Crispy Top: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish and bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese sauce is bubbly and the top develops a golden crust.

Notes

• For best results, shred your own cheese from blocks instead of using pre-shredded cheese to ensure a creamier melt.
• Salt the pasta water well to enhance the flavor of the macaroni.
• Use whole milk for a richer sauce, but 2% milk can be a lighter alternative.
• The optional baking step adds a lovely crispy texture on top, but the mac and cheese is delicious even without baking.
• To make it a quick stovetop version, skip the baking and serve immediately after combining the sauce and pasta.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Chick-fil-A mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheesy pasta recipe, comfort food