KFC Mac & Cheese Copycat

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A Symphony of Flavors

Who says comfort food can’t be elevated? Today, we’re taking a classic American dish, macaroni and cheese, and infusing it with the bold, crispy, and oh-so-satisfying flavors of Kentucky Fried chicken. The result? A culinary masterpiece that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

KFC Mac and Cheese
KFC Mac and Cheese

Image Source: thecountrycook.net

1 pound elbow macaroni

  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/2 cup fried chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces

    • Preparation:

    1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
    2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, salt, pepper, cayenne, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
    3. Add the Dairy: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth.
    4. Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.
    5. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
    6. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the fried chicken and sprinkle with the breadcrumb mixture.
    7. Bake: Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

    Total Time: 45-50 minutes

    Serving Suggestions:

    Classic Comfort: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad.

  • Southern Style: Pair with collard greens and cornbread.
  • Elevated Dining: Garnish with fresh herbs, truffle oil, or a sprinkle of gold flakes.

    • A Fusion of Flavors

    This dish is a testament to the beautiful fusion of cultures and cuisines. It draws inspiration from the hearty comfort food of the American South, the rich and creamy traditions of European cuisine, and the bold flavors of Asian-inspired fried chicken. By combining these elements, we’ve created a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience.

    As we savor this culinary masterpiece, let us appreciate the diverse influences that have shaped our global food culture. Each bite is a journey through time and space, a celebration of human creativity and ingenuity.