Popeyes Mac and Cheese Copycat Recipe (Print Version)

Recreate the iconic Popeyes Mac and Cheese at home with this easy copycat recipe. Enjoy creamy, cheesy pasta, just like your favorite fast-food side.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian

# Ingredients:

→ The Golden Foundation

01 - 1 lb elbow macaroni

→ The Creamy Heart

02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
03 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 3 cups whole milk
05 - 1 cup heavy cream

→ The Cheesy Soul

06 - 2 cups (8 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
07 - 1 cup (4 oz) shredded American cheese

→ Flavorful Whispers

08 - 1 tsp kosher salt
09 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
10 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
11 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
12 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder

# Instructions:

01 - In a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Whisk in 1/2 cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms. This is the creamy heart of your sauce.
02 - Gradually whisk in 3 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream into the roux. Continue whisking until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, allowing it to thicken slightly for your Popeyes Mac and Cheese Copycat Recipe.
03 - Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder. Mix well to incorporate these flavorful whispers into the sauce.
04 - Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add 2 cups (8 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup (4 oz) shredded American cheese to the warm sauce. Stir continuously until all the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
05 - Add the cooked, drained 1 lb elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until the macaroni is fully coated in the rich, cheesy sauce. Serve your delicious Popeyes Mac and Cheese Copycat Recipe immediately while warm.

# Notes:

01 - For extra creaminess, ensure your milk and cream are at room temperature before adding to the roux.
02 - Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
03 - While American cheese is key for the signature creaminess, you can substitute with Monterey Jack or a mild white cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.
04 - Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of extra smoked paprika for a pop of color and enhanced flavor.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large pot
02 - Whisk
03 - 9x13 inch baking dish
04 - Measuring cups
05 - Measuring spoons

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 863 kcal
Total Fat: 53 g
Total Carbohydrate: 70 g
Protein: 28 g

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