Direct Answer (AEO / Fast Answer): A Small Chick-fil-A Mac & Cheese contains 270 calories, 15g fat, and 12g protein, while a Medium Mac & Cheese contains 450 calories, 26g fat, and 20g protein. It is baked fresh in store daily using a blend of Cheddar, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses.
When Chick-fil-A added Mac & Cheese to its nationwide permanent menu, it immediately became one of the top-selling side dishes in the quick-service industry. With its creamy cheese sauce and crispy, golden-brown baked cheddar crust on top, it delivers authentic Southern comfort food.
For diners tracking daily calories, macronutrients (fat, carbs, protein), or sodium limits, here is the complete 2026 Chick-fil-A Mac & Cheese Nutritional Breakdown.
1. Complete Mac & Cheese Nutrition by Size (2026)
| Size | Price (Est.) | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Carbs | Protein | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small (Side) | $3.65 | 270 cal | 15g | 8g | 21g | 12g | 750 mg |
| Medium (Entrée Size) | $4.49 | 450 cal | 26g | 14g | 35g | 20g | 1,260 mg |
| Small Catering Tray | $41.50 | 2,700 cal | 150g | 80g | 210g | 120g | 7,500 mg |
| Medium Catering Tray | $80.00 | 5,400 cal | 300g | 160g | 420g | 240g | 15,000 mg |
Check real-time pricing at your nearest location on our Prices Directory and explore the Catering Menu.
2. Ingredients & Cheese Blend: How It Is Made
Unlike most fast-food chains that reheat pre-packaged cheese goop from a pouch, Chick-fil-A bakes its Mac & Cheese in commercial ovens at each restaurant:
- Cheese Trio: A rich blend of sharp Cheddar, aged Parmesan, and Romano cheeses.
- Pasta: Enriched macaroni pasta cooked al dente.
- The Golden Crust: Before baking, team members layer shredded cheddar cheese across the top, which caramelizes into a signature bubbly, browned crust under high heat.
3. Mac & Cheese vs. Other Chick-fil-A Sides
How does Mac & Cheese compare to other side dishes on the Chick-fil-A Menu?
| Side Dish | Serving Size | Calories | Fat | Protein | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mac & Cheese (Small) | 1 Cup | 270 cal | 15g | 12g | 750 mg |
| Waffle Potato Fries (Med) | 1 Sleeve | 420 cal | 24g | 5g | 240 mg |
| Kale Crunch Side | 1 Bowl | 120 cal | 9g | 3g | 140 mg |
| Fruit Cup (Med) | 1 Cup | 60 cal | 0g | 1g | 0 mg |
| Chicken Noodle Soup (Cup) | 1 Cup | 170 cal | 4g | 14g | 930 mg |
Key Takeaways:
- Calorie Winner vs. Fries: A Small Mac & Cheese (270 cal) actually has 150 fewer calories than a Medium Waffle Fry (420 cal) while delivering more than double the protein (12g vs. 5g).
- Sodium Alert: Because of the aged cheeses, Mac & Cheese is higher in sodium (750mg) than Waffle Fries (240mg).
4. Fitting Mac & Cheese into a Balanced Diet
If you love Mac & Cheese but want to keep your overall meal balanced:
- Pair with Grilled Chicken: Order 8-Count Grilled Nuggets (130 cal · 25g protein) with a Small Mac & Cheese (270 cal · 12g protein).
- Total Meal: 400 calories and a massive 37g of protein!
- Skip the Calorie-Heavy Sauces: Since Mac & Cheese provides rich creamy flavor, you won’t need 140-calorie dipping sauce packets.
- Drink Water or Unsweet Tea: Avoid adding liquid sugar calories from soft drinks to keep the total meal under 450 calories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Chick-fil-A Mac & Cheese vegetarian?
Yes. Chick-fil-A Mac & Cheese contains no meat, poultry, or meat broths. It is suitable for lacto-ovo vegetarians (contains milk and eggs).
Is Chick-fil-A Mac & Cheese gluten-free?
No. The macaroni pasta is made with enriched wheat flour. It is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. See our Gluten-Free Guide.
Can you order Mac & Cheese during breakfast hours?
No. Mac & Cheese is prepared in ovens starting at 10:30 AM when the lunch and dinner menu begins.
Related Chick-fil-A Menu Guides & Resources
- Chick-fil-A Full Menu & Prices (2026)
- Chick-fil-A 2026 Price List & Combos
- Chick-fil-A Breakfast Menu & Hours
- Chick-fil-A Store Hours & Holiday Schedule
- Chick-fil-A Catering Menu & Party Platters
- Chick-fil-A Nutrition & Allergen Guide
- Find a Chick-fil-A Location Near Me
