This Copycat Arby’s Mac and Cheese hits all the right notes—creamy, cheesy, indulgent, and so easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just satisfying a craving, this homemade version brings the fast-food favorite straight to your kitchen with no drive-thru required.
If you’ve ever had a bite of Arby’s mac and cheese, you know it’s not your average side dish. It’s rich, ultra-creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness that keeps you coming back for more. The best part? You can now recreate it at home with simple ingredients in under 30 minutes!
Whether you’re serving it alongside sandwiches, barbecue, or just craving a bowl of comfort food, this Copycat Arby’s Mac and Cheese is the cheesy, satisfying fix you need.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super creamy and rich, just like the original.
- Uses pantry-friendly ingredients and no fancy equipment.
- Kid-approved and perfect as a main or side dish.
- Faster than driving to Arby’s and waiting in line.
- Easy to double or prep ahead for parties or potlucks.
Ingredients Needed
- Elbow macaroni – Classic pasta shape that holds all the creamy cheese.
- Whole milk – Adds richness and helps create the velvety sauce.
- Heavy cream – Makes the mac extra luxurious and thick.
- Unsalted butter – Adds flavor and smoothness to the sauce.
- Cheddar cheese, shredded – Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor like Arby’s.
- American cheese, cubed or slices – Melts easily and brings that signature creaminess.
- Salt (½ teaspoon) – Balances the richness and brings out flavor.
- Ground white pepper– Subtle heat without overpowering the cheesy goodness.
How To Make Copycat Arby’s Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step One: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step Two: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and heavy cream, stirring until heated through. Gradually stir in cheddar and American cheese, whisking until smooth and melted.
Step Three: Add salt and white pepper, then stir in the cooked macaroni. Mix until all the pasta is coated in the creamy cheese sauce. Dish it up immediately for the best texture—thick, creamy, and indulgent.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce—pre-shredded tends to clump.
- Want extra cheesy? Add more American cheese or a pinch of Velveeta for extra meltiness.
- Too thick? Stir in a splash of milk to loosen the sauce before serving.
- Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce for a little kick!
Variations & Add-Ins
- Bacon Crumbles: Add cooked, chopped bacon for a smoky crunch.
- Broccoli: Stir in steamed broccoli for a kid-friendly veggie boost.
- Buffalo-Style: Mix in a little buffalo sauce and shredded chicken.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For a baked version, top with buttered breadcrumbs and broil until golden.
Storage Instructions
Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes? Yes! Shells or cavatappi work great and hold the sauce well.
What type of cheese is closest to Arby’s? A mix of sharp cheddar and American cheese mimics the rich, smooth texture and taste Arby’s is known for.
Can I freeze it? While you can freeze mac and cheese, the sauce may separate a bit when thawed. For best results, enjoy fresh or store in the fridge.
More Copycat Arby’s Recipes
Arby’s Copycat Reuben Sandwich
Arby’s Brown Sugar Bacon BLT Recipe
Arby’s Bronco Berry Sauce Copycat Easy Recipe
Reheating Arby’s Premium Chicken Nuggets In Air Fryer
Arby’s Three Pepper Sauce Recipe
Air Fryer Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches
Homemade Arby’s Cherry Turnovers
Arby’s Steakhouse Onion Rings Copycat Recipe
Ninja Creami Arbys Orange Creamsicle Shake Recipe
Ninja Creami Jamocha Shake (Arby’s Copycat)
Arby’s Horsey Sauce Copycat Recipe
Copycat Arby’s Chicken Tender Recipe
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Copycat Arby’s Mac and Cheese
Description
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni,
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream,
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter,
- 2 cups cheddar cheese,
- 1 cup American cheese, cubed or slices
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt,
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground white pepper,
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and heavy cream, stirring until heated through. Gradually stir in cheddar and American cheese, whisking until smooth and melted.
- Add salt and white pepper, then stir in the cooked macaroni. Mix until all the pasta is coated in the creamy cheese sauce.
- Dish it up immediately for the best texture—thick, creamy, and indulgent.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Skillet
- Spoon
Nutrition
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