Popeyes Mac and Cheese
Popeyes Mac and Cheese is one of the most loved side dishes on the Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen menu. Known for its creamy texture and rich cheese flavor, this homestyle mac and cheese pairs perfectly with Popeyes fried chicken, tenders, and sandwiches. Many customers search for details about calories, price, ingredients, and even copycat recipes, making it one of the most talked-about Popeyes sides.
Mac and Cheese Popeyes Calories
Mac and Cheese Popeyes is a creamy and filling side dish, but it is also high in calories due to its rich cheese sauce. The calorie count depends on the portion size, so choosing a regular or large serving can make a big difference in your daily intake.
| Serving Size | Calories |
|---|---|
| Regular Homestyle Mac & Cheese | 280 |
| Large Homestyle Mac & Cheese | 850 |
Popeyes Mac and Cheese Size and Prices
| Serving Size | Prices |
|---|---|
| Regular Homestyle Mac & Cheese | $3.69 |
| Large Homestyle Mac & Cheese | $6.49 |

Mac & Cheese Allergens
They contain the following common allergens:
- Milk
- Wheat
- Egg
- Soy
Popeyes Homestyle Mac & Cheese Nutrition
Mac & Cheese is rich and creamy, making it high in fat and sodium while also providing a good amount of protein. Nutrition values change by serving size, so portion choice matters if you are watching calories.
| Nutrient | Regular Size | Large Size |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal | 850 kcal |
| Total Fat | 21 g | 63 g |
| Saturated Fat | 21 g | 36 g |
| Trans Fat | 0.5 g | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 60 mg | 180 mg |
| Sodium | 510 mg | 1,540 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 16 g | 48 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g | 1 g |
| Sugars | 3 g | 9 g |
| Protein | 11 g | 33 g |
Popeyes Mac and Cheese Recipe
To recreate the iconic Popeyes Homestyle Mac & Cheese at home is all about two things: a smooth and creamy cheese sauce and a lightly baked cheesy top. This easy copycat recipe uses simple kitchen ingredients to give you that same comforting Popeyes flavor.
It is known for its rich, creamy texture and cheesy taste. It is made with elbow macaroni, real cheddar cheese, butter, milk, and mild seasoning.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (semolina wheat pasta)
- Water (for boiling pasta)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional but recommended)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 4 oz American cheese or Velveeta (for smooth melting)
Copycat Mac and Cheese Recipe (Step by Step)
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add macaroni and cook until soft but not mushy.
- Drain the water and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
- Heat a pan on low flame
- Melt butter completely
- Add flour and stir for 1 minute
- Slowly pour in milk and cream while stirring
- Cook until the sauce becomes thick and smooth
3: Add Cheese Lower the heat.
- Add American cheese and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until fully melted. Add salt, sugar, and paprika. Mix well.
Step 4: Mix Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Gently mix until every pasta piece is coated with creamy cheese.
Step 5: Baked Style Finish (Optional but Recommended)
- Transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes or broil for 3–5 minutes until the top is bubbly with golden brown spots.

Tips for Best Popeyes-Style Taste
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor
- Keep the heat low while melting cheese to avoid lumps
- Do not overbake or the mac and cheese may turn dry
- A tiny pinch of sugar balances the salty cheese perfectly
- Add a small pinch of paprika for that classic Popeyes color
Conclusion
Popeyes Mac and Cheese is a classic homestyle side that delivers rich flavor, creamy texture, and a comforting baked finish. Whether you enjoy it with fried chicken or on its own, it remains one of the most popular sides on the Popeyes menu. From calories and nutrition to prices and an easy copycat recipe, this guide covers everything you need to know before ordering or making it at home.
FAQs
Yes, Popeyes has mac and cheese on its menu. It is available as a regular and large homestyle side at most Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen locations.
A regular Homestyle Mac & Cheese contains about 280 calories, while a large serving has around 850 calories. Calories may vary slightly by location.
They do not contain meat, but they include dairy and may have cross-contact with meat products in the kitchen.
No, it is not gluten-free. It contains wheat pasta and flour in the cheese sauce.





