Description
Recreate the rich and creamy Popeyes mac and cheese right in your own kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe! Known for its cheesy, smooth texture and indulgent flavor, this dish is perfect for serving as a side or even a main course. With a combination of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and American cheeses, this mac and cheese rivals the original and can be customized to fit your taste. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a party, or simply to satisfy your cravings, this recipe will deliver all the comfort food goodness you expect from a classic mac and cheese dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup American cheese, cubed or grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, grated (for topping)
Optional ingredients:
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp mustard powder
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, for a crunchy topping
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Stir constantly to avoid browning the flour.
- Add milk and cream: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream. Continue stirring as the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. The mixture should be smooth and slightly bubbly.
- Add the cheeses: Reduce the heat to low and slowly add in the sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and American cheese. Stir continuously until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). For an extra kick, you can add garlic or mustard powder at this point.
- Combine with macaroni: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, gently stirring until all the pasta is evenly coated.
- Prepare to bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with extra sharp cheddar cheese and optional breadcrumbs for a golden, crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly browned.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Popeyes mac and cheese!
Notes
For best results, use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Cuisine: Southern, American Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 85mg