During a recent KFC visit, I was reminded why their mac and cheese stands out among fast food sides. Unlike the artificial orange glow of boxed versions, KFC’s mac and cheese boasts a silky smooth texture and genuine cheese flavor that takes me back to childhood comfort food memories. The secret lies in their technique of using evaporated milk and real American cheese.
After testing batch after batch, I’ve perfected this copycat recipe that captures every element that makes KFC’s version so irresistible. The best part? It takes just as long as preparing boxed mac and cheese but delivers restaurant-quality results. Once you taste this homemade version, those packets of orange powder will no longer tempt you.
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What Makes KFC Mac and Cheese So Memorable
While you probably won’t go to KFC just to order Mac ‘n Cheese, you could. After all, the chain is known for making a silky smooth version bursting with cheesy goodness. Think of it as a major upgrade to your childhood favorite!
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Boxed Mac and Cheese may not be very delicious, but it is definitely convenient. Well, this copycat KFC Mac and Cheese recipe is almost as easy to make and so much better tasting!
In just about the same amount of time that it takes to prepare off-the-shelf macaroni and cheese, you can make it fresh. And once you try it, you’ll never want to see another packet of Day-Glo orange cheese powder again!
KFC Macaroni and Cheese Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese:
- Large elbow macaroni – Provides a sturdy base with ridges that hold cheese sauce perfectly
- Evaporated milk – Creates rich, concentrated dairy flavor and smooth sauce consistency
- Whole milk – Adds creaminess and helps achieve proper sauce thickness when combined
- Mustard powder – Enhances cheese flavor and adds subtle tangy depth without overpowering
- American cheese – Melts completely smooth and provides a classic comfort food cheese taste
How to Make KFC Mac and CheeseÂ
To prepare copycat KFC Mac and Cheese:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow pasta according to the package instructions.Â
- Drain the macaroni well, and spread it out on a rimmed pan to cool.
- While the macaroni is cooling, combine the evaporated milk, whole milk, and American cheese in the same pan you used to boil the macaroni. Don’t rinse out the pot. The leftover starch from the pasta will help to thicken the cheese sauce.
- Warm the cheese sauce over low heat while stirring. Reduce the heat if the sauce comes to a simmer.
- Once the cheese melts and the sauce has a smooth consistency, return the macaroni to the pot.
- Stir well to coat the pasta with the cheese sauce, and serve immediately.
What to Serve With KFC Mac and Cheese
What could be more comforting than eating a huge bowl of macaroni and cheese on its own? Pairing it with something equally delicious! Grilled or fried chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, meatloaf, or ribs are all great options. And don’t forget the biscuits!
Serve it with a variety of hot sauces to make spicy mac and cheese.
Do you need an inexpensive and no-fuss way to make this recipe more filling? Add sliced hot dogs, bacon bits, or any cooked meat to the sauce.
Top it with crispy chicken and shredded 3-cheese blend to make your own KFC mac and cheese bowl.
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Leftovers
- Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Mac and cheese will thicken when chilled, but reheats beautifully.
- Reheating Method: Microwave at 50% power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between intervals, and adding milk as needed. Stovetop: reheat in a cold pan over low heat, stirring frequently and adding milk to restore consistency.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture may be slightly different, but it’s still delicious.
Love KFC? Try These Copycat Recipes!
More Mac and Cheese Recipes
- Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese
- Spicy Mac and Cheese
- Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese
- Panera Mac and Cheese
- Outback Mac and Cheese
- Sausage Mac and Cheese Casserole
- Horn and Hardart Mac and Cheese
- Mac and Cheese with Bread Crumbs
- Longhorn Mac and Cheese
Check out more of my easy side dish recipes and the best fast food recipes on CopyKat!
KFC Mac and Cheese Easy Copycat Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound large elbow macaroni
- 12 ounces canned evaporated milk
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 18 ounces American cheese
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions.
- Drain the pasta.
- In the pan where you cooked the pasta add the evaporated milk, the whole milk, and the cheese. Heat on low until the cheese melts.
- Add pasta and stir until well coated.
- Serve immediately.
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