Quick Answers
A small CFA mac and cheese costs around $3.39 at most Chick-fil-A locations in the United States as of November 2023. The exact price may vary slightly by location. A small mac and cheese at Chick-fil-A contains around 330 calories.
Introducing Chick-fil-A’s Mac and Cheese
Chick-fil-A first introduced mac and cheese as a permanent menu item in 2017 after a successful test run in 5 select locations. The mac and cheese quickly became one of Chick-fil-A’s most popular side dishes.
Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese is made with a special blend of cheddar, parmesan, and romano cheeses. It has a rich, creamy flavor that complements Chick-fil-A’s chicken items wonderfully. The mac and cheese is baked fresh in restaurant and served warm.
Customers can order Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese as a side item or as part of a meal. It’s available in 3 sizes: small, medium, and large. A small mac and cheese is the perfect portion size for children or people who want just a taste. The medium and large sizes are more filling and better for bigger appetites.
Small Mac and Cheese Calories and Nutrition
Here are the nutrition facts for Chick-fil-A’s small mac and cheese according to the company’s website:
| Calories | 330 |
| Total Fat | 16g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 830mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 33g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 12g |
As you can see, the small size still packs a decent amount of calories, fat, and sodium. The total fat and saturated fat contents are quite high.
However, the small mac and cheese makes a reasonable indulgence. Some of the vitamins and minerals it provides include:
– Calcium: 20% daily value
– Vitamin A: 15% DV
– Vitamin C: 2% DV
– Iron: 10% DV
Overall, Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The small size is a nice option for portion control.
Small Mac and Cheese Price
So how much does a small CFA mac and cheese cost?
The price of a small mac and cheese at Chick-fil-A is typically $3.39 nationwide. However, prices can vary a bit depending on the restaurant’s geographic location.
Here are some examples of small mac and cheese prices at Chick-fil-A locations around the country:
| City, State | Price |
| Houston, TX | $3.39 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $3.39 |
| Chicago, IL | $3.65 |
| New York, NY | $3.75 |
| Seattle, WA | $3.49 |
| Miami, FL | $3.39 |
| Detroit, MI | $3.45 |
As you can see, the price is usually $3.39, give or take about 25 cents in most metro areas. Major cities like New York City tend to be a bit higher.
Some factors that influence the pricing include:
– State and local sales tax rates
– Franchise operator’s discretion
– Real estate and operating costs in the region
But in general, $3.39 is the standard price across the country for a small CFA mac and cheese.
Ways to Save on Mac and Cheese
If you want to get Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese for less, here are some tips:
– Use coupons – Chick-fil-A periodically offers coupons for free items or discounted prices. Look out for mac and cheese coupons.
– Order from the kids menu – The small mac and cheese is included on Chick-fil-A’s kids meal menu for slightly cheaper.
– Join One membership – As a member, you’ll earn points toward free food rewards.
– Order catering trays – For large orders, you may get a discounted bulk rate per item.
– Download the app – Keep an eye out for exclusive mobile offers and rewards.
– Sign up for emails – You’ll get sent coupons and promo codes for free food.
– Avoid delivery – Ordering takeout directly from the restaurant avoids delivery fees.
– Split with a friend – Order one mac and cheese and two forks to share!
With the right coupons and deals, you can get a small mac and cheese for under $3 at Chick-fil-A.
Is the Small Size Enough?
Chick-fil-A’s small mac and cheese contains about 1 cup of macaroni and cheese. Is that enough for a meal or should you size up?
Here are some factors to consider when deciding on the small vs medium or large:
– **Age -** The small is a perfect kid-sized portion for children under 12. Adults may want more.
– **Appetite** – If you’re extra hungry, the small may leave you unsatisfied. Get a medium or large.
– **Pairing items** – Will you pair it with nuggets or another side? If so, a small could work.
– **Dietary needs** – Stick with the small if you’re watching calories or carbs.
– **Coupon or combo deals** – Sizing up may come with deals or allow you to use coupons.
– **Value** – The medium and large have more mac and cheese per dollar if you want to maximize value.
– **Leftovers** – No one likes cold mac and cheese. Only size up if you’ll finish.
Overall, the small CFA mac and cheese is plenty filling paired with a sandwich or nuggets and great for kids. Adults who want it as a standalone side or meal may prefer the medium or large. Check your hunger levels and order the right amount to satisfy your craving!
Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese vs Other Places
How does Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese compare to other popular fast food and restaurant chains? Here’s a taste test rundown:
**KFC -** KFC’s mac and cheese has a smoother, creamier cheese sauce flavor. Chick-fil-A’s is richer and more intense. KFC uses elbow macaroni while CFA uses shell pasta.
**McDonald’s -** McDonald’s has a classic, cheesy flavor but it’s a bit thinner and milkier. Chick-fil-A’s is more indulgent and flavorful. McDonald’s only offers one size.
**Wendy’s -** Wendy’s uses a white cheddar cheese sauce that’s tangy and robust. However, Chick-fil-A’s blend of cheddar, parmesan, and romano gives it a more complex depth.
**Panera Bread -** Panera has a baked mac with a breadcrumb topping. It’s fancier and more casserole-style while CFA’s is more traditional. Panera’s sharp cheddar dominates while CFA balances multiple cheeses.
**Cracker Barrel -** Cracker Barrel’s homestyle mac and cheese has a gooey, comforting vibe. Chick-fil-A’s is richer and cheesier with crispy pasta edges. Cracker Barrel adds paprika too.
So in summary, Chick-fil-A strikes an excellent balance of cheese flavor, creaminess, and pasta texture with their mac and cheese recipe. The blend of cheeses gives it an unbeatable depth and indulgence. It holds its own against the biggest names in mac and cheese!
How to Make It Gluten-Free
Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese is made with wheat-based pasta, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can “hack” it to be gluten-free at home with these tweaks:
– Use gluten-free pasta like rice noodles, quinoa noodles or lentil pasta
– Make sure you read labels and use gluten-free dairy products
– For the cheese sauce: melt butter and add flour substitute (like tapioca or potato starch), milk, and shredded cheese
– Season sauce with salt, pepper and spices like paprika
– Cook pasta al dente, mix with sauce, then transfer to baking dish
– Top with breadcrumb substitute (like gluten-free panko)
– Bake at 375°F until bubbly and topping is crispy
With the right substitutions, you can re-create the classic Chick-fil-A mac and cheese experience in a gluten-free version. Stick to brands that you trust to avoid cross-contamination. Use high-quality, gluten-free ingredients for best results.
How to Make It Vegan
To make a vegan version of Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese, use these plant-based swaps:
– Vegan pasta like chickpea or lentil pasta
– Nutritional yeast to replace parmesan
– Vegan butter or oil instead of dairy butter
– Unsweetened soy, almond or oat milk
– Vegan cheeses such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart
– Vegan breadcrumbs with oil/garlic powder for topping
– Potatoes, carrots, squash, or cauliflower as a substitute for the cheese sauce
Blend, roast, or boil the veggies til soft. Add to blender with spices, milk, and vegan cheese. Blend into smooth sauce.
Mix sauce with pasta, transfer to baking dish, and top with breadcrumbs. Bake until set and browned.
With these dairy-free ingredient tweaks, you can enjoy vegan mac and cheese with the tasty flavors of cheddar and parmesan. It captures the indulgence of Chick-fil-A’s classic dish!
Making It Low Carb
For a lower carb version of Chick-fil-A mac and cheese, try these modifications:
-Swap traditional pasta for zucchini, spiralized carrots, or edamame noodles
-Use cauliflower florets or riced cauliflower in place of some of the pasta
-Choose low-carb cheeses like parmesan, swiss, mozzarella
-Add healthy fats from avocado or olive oil to sauce
-Use unsweetened almond milk or nut milk instead of regular milk
-Top with toasted pecan crumbs rather than breadcrumbs
-Increase protein with diced grilled chicken or ham
-Bake in a casserole dish or as individual ramekins
-For more nutrients, add spinach, broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes
With fewer carbs and more nutrients, you can still enjoy all the creamy, cheesy flavor of mac and cheese on a low carb lifestyle. This version helps you save carbs for other treats!
Conclusion
Chick-fil-A’s bite-sized mac and cheese is a cheesy, saucy crowd favorite. The small size offers a 330-calorie portion that’s perfect for kids or pairing in combos. It costs around $3.39 at most locations – an indulgent side for a reasonable price. With couponing or meal deals, you can enjoy the Original or Spicy Chicken flavors for even less! Or make it gluten-free, vegan, or low carb at home. Satisfy your comfort food craving with Chick-fil-A’s mac and cheese available in 3 cheering portion sizes.
