Love Popeyes Mac and Cheese? Here’s a 45-Minute Recipe to Make It!

Mac and cheese is a dish that transcends generations, evoking warm memories and pure indulgence. But when you hear Popeyes mac and cheese, it brings to mind a uniquely rich and creamy baked version that stands out from the rest. With a golden crust and a luscious interior, this recipe captures the magic of Popeyes mac and cheese, making it a must-try for your next comfort food craving.

In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about recreating Popeyes mac and cheese at home. From the ingredients that make it shine to expert tips for perfect results, this is your ultimate guide to mastering a baked mac and cheese that rivals the original.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Popeyes Mac and Cheese

Description: This easy Popeyes mac and cheese recipe is a delicious, comforting dish featuring chewy pasta and a rich, creamy sauce topped with a golden layer of melted cheddar. The perfect balance of creamy and cheesy, this baked mac and cheese is simple yet incredibly tasty.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 10
• Calories: 609 per serving

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow pasta
• 1/2 cup (1 stick / 115g / 4 oz) butter, plus extra for greasing and the pasta
• 1/2 cup (120g / 4.2 oz) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (500ml / 16 fl oz) milk
• 1 cup of heavy cream, which is 240 milliliters or 8 fluid ounces.
• 4 cups (450g / 16 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups (225g / 8 oz) shredded gouda cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Get started by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow pasta in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, toss it with a bit of butter to keep it from sticking, and then set it aside.
3. Make the Roux: In a spacious saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and bubbly.
4. Add the Dairy: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Incorporate the Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in 3 cups of cheddar and 1.5 cups of gouda until melted and smooth. Reserve the remaining cheese for topping.
6. Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.
8. Assemble and Bake: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar and gouda on top.
9. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Broil for Crispiness (Optional): For an extra crispy crust, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes.

Notes

• Always season your pasta water for enhanced flavor.
• Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will keep cooking in the oven.
• Freshly grated cheese melts more easily and gives a creamier texture.
• For make-ahead options, add an extra cup of milk to the sauce before baking to maintain creaminess.
• Broiling the top creates a crunchy, golden crust.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 609
• Fat: 41g
• Saturated Fat: 25g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 126mg
• Sodium: 814mg
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 24g

Why You’ll Love This Popeyes Mac and Cheese Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy: The combination of sharp cheddar and gouda creates a velvety sauce that’s irresistibly good.
2. Golden Crust: The baked topping adds a delightful crunch, making every bite a textural delight.
3. Family-Friendly: It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or holiday gatherings.
4. Easy to Make: Straightforward steps make this a beginner-friendly recipe with impressive results.
5. Customizable: Simple ingredient swaps allow you to tailor the dish to your preferences.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions for Popeyes Mac and Cheese

• Sharp Cheddar: Adds a tangy richness; swap with white cheddar for a milder flavor.
• Gouda: Known for its creamy texture, it can be replaced with Gruyere for a nuttier taste.
• Heavy Cream: Provides luxurious creaminess; substitute with half-and-half if needed.
• Elbow Pasta: Traditional and sturdy, though shells or cavatappi also work well.

How to Make Popeyes Mac and Cheese (Step-by-Step)

Recreating the delicious, creamy, and golden-baked Popeyes mac and cheese at home is easier than you might think. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve the perfect balance of cheesy goodness and crispy topping that makes this dish so irresistible. Whether you’re just starting or have plenty of cooking experience, this method will ensure success every time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

The foundation of a great Popeyes mac and cheese is perfectly cooked pasta. Here’s how to get it just right:

1. Boil Water: Fill a big pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. The salt enhances the flavor of the pasta from the inside out.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the elbow pasta and cook it until just al dente (firm to the bite) according to the package instructions. Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
3. Drain and Butter: Drain the pasta well and toss it with a small amount of butter to prevent it from sticking. Set it aside.

Pro Tip: Use elbow pasta for that classic Popeyes mac and cheese feel, but you can also try shells, cavatappi, or rotini if you want a twist on the texture.

Step 2: Make the Velvety Cheese Sauce

The essence of this Popeyes mac and cheese lies in its rich, creamy cheese sauce. Here’s how to create it like a pro:

1. Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. After melting, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux.
2. Cook the Roux: Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes golden brown and has a nutty aroma. This step ensures your cheese sauce will be smooth, not grainy.
3. Add Milk and Cream: Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar and 1.5 cups of shredded gouda. Stir until the cheese is completely melted, smooth, and creamy.
5. Season the Sauce: For that authentic Popeyes mac and cheese flavor, add garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Pro Tip: Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded store-bought cheese. Pre-shredded cheese usually has anti-caking agents that can hinder it from melting smoothly.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Now that your pasta and cheese sauce are ready, it’s time to bring them together:

1. Mix It Up: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until every noodle is thoroughly coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness.
2. Taste Test: Take a small bite to check for seasoning. Add a pinch more salt, pepper, or garlic powder if needed. This is your chance to customize the flavor before baking.

Pro Tip: The cheese sauce should be slightly runny at this stage, as it will thicken during baking. If it appears too thick, simply add a splash of milk.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

This is where the magic happens. Your pasta is ready, the sauce is perfect, and now it’s time to build that golden-baked masterpiece.

1. Prep the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Mac and Cheese: Pour the pasta and cheese mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Top with More Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and gouda over the top. This extra layer of cheese creates that signature golden crust you love in Popeyes mac and cheese.

Pro Tip: If you want an ultra-crispy top layer, you can mix the shredded cheese with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before sprinkling it on top.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Baking is the final step that transforms this dish from creamy to crispy and golden. Follow these instructions for the perfect bake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while you assemble the dish.
2. Bake It: Place the dish on the center rack and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown.
3. Broil for Extra Crisp (Optional): If you want an extra crispy crust, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after baking. Watch it closely to avoid burning.

Pro Tip: Let the baked Popeyes mac and cheese sit for 5-10 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This allows the cheese sauce to thicken and makes it easier to serve.

Expert Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use milk and cream at room temperature to prevent curdling.
• Layer Your Cheese: A mix of cheeses in the sauce and on top enhances flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Too long in the oven can dry out the dish; stick to the recommended bake time.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.
• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken, bacon, or ham for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Option: Incorporate roasted vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store any leftover portions in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or microwave in short bursts with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Popeyes mac and cheese with fried chicken, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It’s also a fantastic standalone dish for comfort food nights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Related Recipes

If you’re a fan of the creamy, cheesy goodness of Popeyes mac and cheese, these comforting dishes will satisfy your cravings:

• Cheesy Broccoli Mac and Cheese: Creamy cheese sauce with fresh broccoli for a veggie-packed twist.
• Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese: A tangy, smooth white cheddar sauce for a flavor twist.
• Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: Spicy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and creamy cheese combine for bold flavor.

Conclusion

This Popeyes mac and cheese recipe combines nostalgia and indulgence into a dish that’s impossible to resist. From its creamy sauce to its golden crust, every bite is pure comfort. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and let this cheesy masterpiece take center stage at your table!