KFC Mac and Cheese: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl
The KFC Mac and Cheese Bowl is a warm, s ingle-serve comfort item. It combines KFC’s creamy macaroni with crispy chicken pieces. A three-cheese blend topping adds to the flavor.
This dish is part of the Famous Bowls concept. It’s an affordable, filling option for quick lunches and value meals.
This KFC mac n cheese comes in Original and Spicy (Nashville Hot) variants. It was added to the $5 Fill Up lineup in many locations. Bowl calories range roughly from 520–810, depending on version and combo.
Combo price points sit between $5 and $6.99. They often include a medium drink and cookie.
The KFC creamy mac and cheese is great for back-to-school routines and grab-and-go lunches. It’s also perfect for anyone seeking a hearty side or solo meal. Its smooth pasta, savory cheese, and crispy chicken make it a comfort choice for all ages.
What Is the KFC Mac and Cheese Bowl
The Mac & Cheese Bowl is a mix of creamy comfort and easy-to-eat convenience. It has kfc mac and cheese with elbow pasta in a smooth three-cheese sauce. Then, it’s topped with hand-breaded 100% white meat chicken bites. You can pick Original or Spicy (Nashville Hot) for a twist on a classic side.
This dish is an upgrade to KFC’s Famous Bowls. It makes a beloved side the main attraction of a single-serving meal. This change turns kfc macaroni and cheese from a side dish into a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.
It’s placed on the menu to offer value and something familiar. Introduced during the $5 Fill Up era, it pairs well with other KFC signature sides. This makes it a satisfying, yet affordable, option.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mac & Cheese Bowl (Original) | Creamy three-cheese macaroni topped with hand-breaded chicken bites | Approx. 650 kcal | $5.00 (varies by location) |
| Mac & Cheese Bowl (Spicy) | Same creamy base with Nashville Hot chicken pieces for heat | Approx. 670 kcal | $5.00 (varies by location) |
| Famous Bowl | Mashed potatoes, corn, gravy, popcorn chicken, and cheese | Approx. 740 kcal | $4.99–$5.49 |
| Side: Mac and Cheese | Classic creamy kfc macaroni and cheese as a portioned side | Approx. 210 kcal | $1.99–$2.49 |
| Popcorn Chicken (Small) | Hand-breaded popcorn chicken pieces used as bowl topping | Approx. 320 kcal | $2.49–$2.99 |
| Mashed Potatoes (Side) | Creamy mashed potatoes with gravy, classic kfc signature sides | Approx. 120 kcal | $1.49–$1.99 |
| Coleslaw (Side) | Creamy, slightly tangy cabbage salad to balance richness | Approx. 170 kcal | $1.49–$1.99 |
| Biscuit | Buttery, flaky biscuit often ordered with bowls and combos | Approx. 180 kcal | $1.29–$1.49 |
| Grilled Chicken Add-on | Option to swap or top with grilled pieces for lighter protein | Approx. 140 kcal (per 3 oz) | $1.99–$2.99 |
| Large Drink (Combo) | Completes Fill Up or combo meals with a beverage | Approx. 200 kcal (sweetened) | $1.00–$1.79 |
The bowl combines comfort food with quick-serve ease. It uses KFC signature sides like creamy mac and popcorn chicken. This makes it appealing to families, commuters, and anyone wanting warm, cheesy food.
Availability can change by restaurant. KFC press materials and menu listings show the bowl in participating locations across the United States. It’s often part of rotating promotions and combo offers that highlight value and portability.
kfc mac and cheese Nutritional Facts and Calorie Breakdown
KFC’s mac and cheese bowls are a favorite among guests. But, they often don’t check the nutrition facts. This section provides calorie ranges, macronutrients, and warnings. This helps you make a smart choice about kfc mac n cheese nutrition and kfc mac and cheese calories before you order.
Typical calorie ranges and macronutrients
The calorie count varies based on the style and combo. A standard Mac & Cheese Bowl has about 660 kcal. The Nashville Hot Mac & Cheese Bowl is close to 610 kcal. Full combos range from 520–810 kcal, depending on the protein topping, side choices, and drink size.
The macronutrient breakdown focuses on fat and carbs. A typical bowl has 22–36 g of total fat, 42–44 g of carbohydrates, and about 30 g of protein. Protein helps you feel full, while fat and carbs provide most of the calories in kfc cheesy mac nutrition.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mac & Cheese Bowl | Classic creamy macaroni topped as offered | ~660 kcal | $3.49 |
| Nashville Hot Mac & Cheese Bowl | Spicy chicken topping with creamy mac | ~610 kcal | $4.29 |
| Mac & Cheese with Crispy Chicken | Bowl with fried chicken pieces | ~720 kcal | $5.19 |
| Small Mac & Cheese | Side portion of creamy macaroni | ~270 kcal | $1.99 |
| Large Mac & Cheese | Family-size side or larger bowl | ~420 kcal | $3.99 |
| Combo (bowl + drink) | Bowl served with medium drink | 520–810 kcal | $6.49 |
| Mac & Cheese with Grilled Chicken | Grilled topping for lower fat | ~580 kcal | $5.29 |
| Mac & Cheese with Extra Cheese | Added cheese for richer flavor | ~740 kcal | $4.79 |
| Mac & Cheese Meal (large) | Full meal with sides | ~810 kcal | $7.99 |
| Mac & Cheese with Bacon Bits | Bacon-added topping | ~700 kcal | $5.49 |
Sodium, cholesterol, and allergen considerations
Sodium is a big concern. The Nashville Hot Mac & Cheese Bowl has about 2,180 mg of sodium. This is high and should be noted by those watching their salt intake.
Cholesterol is moderate in bowl versions. For example, a spicier bowl has roughly 85 mg of cholesterol. Those watching heart health should track both fat and cholesterol when calculating daily totals tied to kfc mac and cheese calories.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mac & Cheese Bowl | No | No | No (contains wheat) | Milk, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Nashville Hot Mac & Cheese Bowl | No | No | No (contains wheat) | Milk, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Mac & Cheese with Crispy Chicken | No | No | No (breaded chicken) | Milk, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Mac & Cheese with Grilled Chicken | No | Lower carb option if ordered without sauce: No | May be gluten-free depending on prep | Milk, Soy, Egg; cross-contact possible |
| Small Mac & Cheese | No | No | No | Milk, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Large Mac & Cheese | No | No | No | Milk, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Mac & Cheese with Extra Cheese | No | No | No | Milk, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Mac & Cheese with Bacon Bits | No | No | No | Milk, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Combo Bowl with Drink | No | No | No | Milk, Egg, Soy, Wheat; drink-specific allergens vary |
| Mac & Cheese Meal (large) | No | No | No | Milk, Egg, Soy, Wheat; cross-contact risks |
KFC lists egg, milk, soy, and wheat as possible allergens in the Mac & Cheese Bowl. Cross-contact is possible because shared equipment is used in kitchens. Guests with strict dietary needs should ask for in-store nutrition guides and check KFC’s Special Diets information for full charts.
Weight Watchers conversions vary by source. For example, a bowl might have about 19 Freestyle Points. If sodium, calories, or allergens are a concern, plan your choices carefully. Ask staff for the latest kfc cheesy mac nutrition and kfc mac n cheese nutrition details.
Price, availability, and combo options
The KFC Mac & Cheese Bowl has been offered in different prices across the country. Prices can vary due to franchise participation, local taxes, and menu promotions. Combo deals often change more frequently than single item prices.
Typical pricing and the $5 Fill Up context
KFC introduced the Mac & Cheese Bowl as part of the kfc $5 Fill Up line for $5. Taxes and franchise participation can affect the final cost. In some areas, bowl combos cost around $6.99 with a drink and cookie or when upgraded with popcorn chicken or chicken bites.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mac & Cheese Bowl (solo) | Creamy macaroni topped with cheddar-style sauce | Approx. 420 | $3.99–$5.99 |
| Mac & Cheese Bowl Combo | Bowl with medium drink and chocolate chip cookie | Approx. 700 | $5.00 (kfc $5 Fill Up) or $6.99 in some regions |
| Mac Bowl with Popcorn Chicken | Bowl topped with popcorn chicken pieces | Approx. 850 | $6.49–$7.49 |
| Mac Bowl with Chicken Bites | Smaller chicken bites as a topping | Approx. 780 | $6.29–$7.29 |
| Family Side Size (Mac & Cheese) | Larger container for sharing | Varies by portion | $7.99–$10.99 |
| Limited-Time Spicy Variant | Nashville Hot or spicy-seasoned mac bowl | Approx. 730 | Variable with promotion |
| Delivery Fee Adjustment | Price shown on third-party apps may include fees | N/A | App pricing varies |
| Drive-Thru Purchase | Order at window; pricing often matches in-restaurant | N/A | Local pricing |
| KFC App Exclusive Offers | Coupons or limited bundled pricing | N/A | App-specific |
| Seasonal Promo Bundle | Short-term combos or regional specials | Varies | Promotional pricing |
Where and when you can find it
The Mac & Cheese Bowl was introduced nationwide on August 26, 2019. Availability depends on local franchise decisions and menu rotation.
You can buy the bowl in-restaurant, at the drive-thru, through the KFC app, and on delivery platforms where KFC partners operate. Prices and packaging may vary by channel. Some places keep it on the menu, while others offer it as a limited-time item or with spicy variants during promotions.
Before visiting, check your local KFC menu and current promotions. This ensures you know the current kfc mac and cheese price and if the kfc $5 Fill Up is available at your nearest KFC.
Taste, texture, and what to expect from the creamy mac
The KFC creamy mac and cheese is a comforting bowl of classic Southern comfort with a modern twist. It has a velvety sauce that coats short pasta shapes, making each bite smooth and buttery. This dish is hearty enough to be a main course, whether you add protein or enjoy it alone.
Flavor profile and cheese blend
The flavor is centered on a mild, savory three-cheese blend. This blend adds depth without overpowering the pasta. Sharp cheddar gives a hint of tang, while mozzarella-style cheese adds stretch and creaminess. A softer, creamy cheese keeps the sauce silky.
Seasoning is kept subtle to let the cheese take center stage. The result is a balanced flavor that feels both familiar and indulgent. It has a buttery finish and a modest salt level that complements other menu items.
Contrast between creamy mac and crispy chicken
The texture contrast is a big part of its appeal. The macaroni provides a smooth, saucy base. Hand-breaded popcorn chicken or chicken bites add a crunchy contrast that cuts through the richness.
When Nashville Hot chicken is added, the spicy coating adds a peppery kick to the crunchy chicken. This pairing is why fans call it kfc southern style mac and cheese when paired with classic fried chicken.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Mac Bowl | Three-cheese macaroni in creamy sauce | 320 | $2.49 |
| Mac + Popcorn Chicken | Mac topped with hand-breaded popcorn chicken | 610 | $4.99 |
| Mac + Nashville Hot Bites | Mac with spicy battered chicken pieces | 650 | $5.49 |
| Large Mac Side | Oversized portion for sharing | 640 | $3.79 |
| Mac Snack Cup | Smaller serving for kids or sides | 180 | $1.49 |
| Mac with Extra Cheese | Extra three-cheese blend added | 420 | $2.99 |
| Mac Combo Meal | Mac plus chicken and drink | 920 | $6.49 |
| Family Mac Pack | Large tray for groups | 1920 | $9.99 |
| Mac & Biscuit | Mac served with a warm biscuit | 520 | $3.99 |
| Mac Snack + Drink | Snack cup paired with small drink | 300 | $2.29 |
Allergen and dietary adaptations
KFC’s Mac & Cheese Bowl has milk, egg, soy, and wheat. These can cause allergic reactions. Food is made on shared equipment, so cross-contact is possible. Guests with allergies should check the nutrition pamphlets and Special Diets page before ordering.
Common allergens in the mac
The mac has dairy from cheese and milk, egg, soy, and wheat. Staff can tell you what’s in it, but cross-contact can happen. This is because of fried chicken or shared utensils.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mac & Cheese Bowl | No | No | No | Dairy, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Grilled Chicken (single) | No | Sometimes (low-carb) | Sometimes (cross-contact risk) | Egg (marinade may vary), Soy |
| Mashed Potatoes (with gravy) | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat (gravy) |
| Green Beans | Yes | Yes | Yes | None declared (cross-contact possible) |
| House Salad (no dressing) | Yes | Yes | Yes | None declared (check toppings) |
| Biscuits | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Coleslaw | No | No | No | Dairy, Egg |
| Plant-Based Nuggets (where available) | Yes | No | Varies | Soy, Wheat |
| Fries | Yes | Yes | Varies | Soy (oil) |
| Apple Slices | Yes | Yes | Yes | None declared |
Tips for those seeking alternatives
Make safe versions at home with kfc mac n cheese diet swaps. Use dairy-free shreds and plant milk instead of dairy. Choose gluten-free pasta and flour for the sauce.
For protein, bake or air-fry chicken to keep it crispy. Use tofu, chickpeas, or vegan chicken for meatless meals. Choose low-sodium cheeses or reduce salt for less sodium.
- Ask staff about current ingredient lists and cross-contact controls before ordering.
- Order components separately if allergies are severe and finish assembly at home.
- Use a roux or starch alternatives like arrowroot to thicken dairy-free sauces without grainy texture.
- Air-fry breadcrumbs or use crushed gluten-free crackers for a crispy topping that stays dry.
These steps help manage kfc mac and cheese allergens and offer diet-friendly swaps. They let you enjoy creamy comfort while meeting dietary needs confidently.
How KFC marketed the Mac & Cheese Bowl and cultural reaction
KFC introduced the Mac & Cheese Bowl in August 2019. It was a comfort food addition to their value menu. The bowl was marketed as a twist on Famous Bowls, focusing on convenience and value.
Launch messaging and promotional partners
The bowl was promoted as a twist on Famous Bowls. KFC U.S. CMO Andrea Zahumensky called mac & cheese a “cult-like following.” The brand teamed up with Kalen Allen for taste-test content on social media.
Customer reception and popularity
People loved the bowl’s indulgent comfort. Critics and customers praised the creamy mac and crispy chicken. The bowl’s popularity led to many copycat recipes online.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mac & Cheese Bowl | Macaroni in a cheddar sauce with popcorn chicken and gravy | 520 | $5 (Fill Up variant) |
| Famous Bowl | Mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, popcorn chicken, cheese | 680 | $5–$6 |
| Classic Mac & Cheese (side) | Creamy cheddar-style macaroni side | 140 | $1.99 |
| Popcorn Chicken | Crispy bite-size chicken pieces | 320 | $3.49 |
| Nashville Hot Upgrade | Spicy sauce add-on for heat | 30 | $0.79 |
KFC’s marketing focused on affordability and comfort. Fans could add spicy Nashville Hot sauce for extra heat.
The bowl’s visibility helped it stay popular. Restaurants that kept it on the menu benefited from ongoing interest and repeat orders.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mac & Cheese Bowl | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Famous Bowl | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Classic Mac & Cheese (side) | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Popcorn Chicken | No | No | No | Wheat |
| Nashville Hot Upgrade | No | No | Yes (sauce) | None listed |
| Mashed Potatoes | No | No | No | Dairy |
| Gravy | No | No | No | Wheat |
| Green Beans | Yes | Yes | Yes | None listed |
| Coleslaw | No | No | No | Dairy |
| Biscuit | No | No | No | Wheat, Dairy |
KFC’s storytelling focused on comfort and convenience. The launch combined product, publicity, and value messaging to appeal to tastes.
The bowl’s popularity grew through reviews and social media. Social shares, recipe recreations, and repeat orders kept it in the spotlight.
Copycat recipes and how to recreate KFC cheesy mac at home
Making a favorite fast-food side at home lets you control the taste, texture, and ingredients. A great kfc mac and cheese recipe has a smooth sauce, short pasta, and crispy chicken on top. You can make it just as comforting as the original, but with your own twist.
Start with short pasta like elbows or shells. Then, make a roux with butter and flour or a starch. Use milk or half-and-half, and a mix of three cheeses. Sharp cheddar adds bite, a melting cheese stretches, and a mild cheese gives body. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for flavor.
Technique is key, not tricks. Make a smooth roux, whisk in warm milk slowly, and then remove from heat before adding grated cheeses. This avoids graininess. Cook pasta al dente and toss with sauce for creaminess. For extra richness, boil pasta briefly in part milk or stir in plain yogurt off heat.
For the crispy chicken topping, use hand-breaded popcorn chicken or chopped tenders. Pat chicken dry, coat in seasoned flour or gluten-free blend, and then bake or air fry. An air fryer at 360°F for 10–15 minutes gives a crisp exterior without excess oil. Reheat leftovers by air frying at 360–370°F for 5–10 minutes to regain crunch.
Make the dish accessible with diet swaps. For dairy-free, use unsweetened oat or almond milk and plant-based shreds. Adapt the roux with a neutral starch. Gluten-free versions use GF pasta and arrowroot or tapioca for thickening, plus GF breading for chicken. Vegetarians can top the mac with seasoned chickpeas, plant-based nugget alternatives, or roasted sweet potato cubes.
Store components separately in airtight containers for the best texture. Refrigerate mac and chicken for 3–4 days. Reheat the mac gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore sauce consistency. Crisp the chicken in an oven or air fryer before serving for the best contrast.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Creamy Mac | Elbows tossed in three-cheese sauce with smoked paprika | 380 | $3.50 |
| Popcorn Chicken Topping | Bite-size, hand-breaded pieces, oven-crisped | 240 | $2.75 |
| Air-Fryer Crispy Tenders | Chopped tenders with seasoned GF breading option | 300 | $3.25 |
| Dairy-Free Mac | Plant milk base with dairy-free shreds | 360 | $3.75 |
| Gluten-Free Bowl | GF pasta, arrowroot-thickened sauce, GF chicken | 370 | $4.25 |
| Vegetarian Topping | Roasted butternut squash and chickpeas | 290 | $3.00 |
| Half-and-Half Rich Mac | Uses half-and-half for a silkier mouthfeel | 420 | $4.00 |
| Low-Fat Version | Reduced-fat milk, less cheese, baked chicken | 310 | $3.20 |
| Kid-Sized Bowl | Smaller portion with mild seasoning | 260 | $2.50 |
| Family Tray | Large batch for meal prep with separate chicken pack | 3200 (total) | $18.00 |
Try small tests when tuning a kfc copycat mac and cheese. Adjust cheese ratios and seasoning to match your taste. When you get it just right, the kfc mac and cheese recipe becomes a weeknight favorite.
For a full make-at-home bowl, combine creamy mac with crisp chicken at service time. This gives the ideal contrast. It lets you enjoy a kfc copycat mac and cheese experience while controlling ingredients and portion sizes.
Serving ideas and pairing with KFC menu items
The KFC Mac & Cheese Bowl is perfect as a cozy side or the main dish. It pairs well with classic KFC items for a mix of textures and comfort.
Start with buttery biscuits to cut the richness. Add coleslaw for acidity and crunch. For lighter sides, choose mashed potatoes or green beans.
Finish with fried chicken or wings for protein and crunch. The bowl fits into $5 Fill Up combos with a medium drink and cookie for an affordable meal.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mac & Cheese Bowl | Creamy macaroni in cheesy sauce, served warm | 320 | $2.99 |
| Original Recipe Chicken (2 pc) | Classic seasoned fried chicken with crispy crust | 600 | $5.49 |
| Extra-Buttery Biscuit | Flaky biscuit with buttery finish | 180 | $1.29 |
| Coleslaw | Creamy slaw with tangy vinegar balance | 150 | $1.99 |
| Mashed Potatoes | Silky potatoes with gravy on the side | 120 | $1.99 |
| Green Beans | Lightly seasoned, steamed green beans | 40 | $1.79 |
| Chicken Wings (3 pc) | Spicy or original wings, crisp finish | 420 | $4.99 |
| Medium Sweet Tea | Sweetened black tea, chilled | 200 | $1.99 |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | Warm cookie with melty chips | 160 | $0.99 |
Beverage tips: Sweet tea or cola cuts through creaminess. Choose a sparkling beverage for lift. If you order a spicy Nashville Hot item, pick milk-based drinks or unsweetened tea to soothe heat.
Small garnishes boost flavor. Sprinkle shredded cheddar or dried parsley. Offer hot sauce on the side so guests can control spice. Serve the bowl hot to keep a pleasing contrast between creamy pasta and crisp chicken.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mac & Cheese Bowl | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Original Recipe Chicken | No | No | No | Wheat, Soy, Dairy (possible) |
| Extra-Buttery Biscuit | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Coleslaw | No | No | Yes (no dressing change) | Egg, Mustard, Dairy (possible) |
| Mashed Potatoes | No | No | Yes (without gravy) | Dairy |
| Green Beans | Yes | Yes | Yes | None common |
| Chicken Wings | No | No | No | Wheat, Soy |
| Sweet Tea | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | No | No | No | Wheat, Dairy, Eggs |
Meal pairings and combos
Combine the mac bowl with a two-piece chicken or wings for a hearty plate. Add coleslaw and a biscuit for balance. Use the bowl in $5 Fill Up style orders when feeding one person on a budget. That mix gives variety without extra fuss.
Tips for reheating and storing leftovers
Store mac and chicken separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for 3–4 days. Freeze only when vacuum sealed; thawing can alter texture.
For reliable kfc mac and cheese reheating, warm the mac on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk. Stir often to restore creaminess. Microwaving works if you stop and stir every 30 seconds.
Re-crisp chicken in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes. An air fryer at 360–370°F for 4–6 minutes gives fast crisping. Avoid microwaving chicken to prevent sogginess.
Leftover ideas give new life to the bowl. Bake a casserole topped with breadcrumbs. Fold chicken into a sandwich. Mix mac with steamed vegetables for a quick pasta salad warmed through.
These serving ideas highlight practical kfc mac and cheese pairings while keeping your leftovers fresh and tasty.
Conclusion
The KFC Mac and Cheese Bowl is a twist on a classic, with creamy pasta and three cheeses. You can add Original or Nashville Hot chicken for extra flavor. It’s a hit in the $5 Fill Up lineup, attracting many reviews and recipes.
Before you try it, be aware of its high calories and sodium. It contains milk, egg, soy, and wheat, common allergens. Check KFC’s Special Diets resources or in-store nutrition for details. Making it at home lets you customize with your favorite cheeses and spices.
For the authentic taste, find the bowl at KFC or in special combos. Or, try making it yourself to control the ingredients. This dish is all about creamy comfort and flexibility for your taste and dietary needs.
FAQ
What is the KFC Mac and Cheese Bowl?
The KFC Mac and Cheese Bowl is a warm, single-serve comfort item. It combines KFC’s creamy macaroni and cheese with hand-breaded chicken. It also has a three-cheese blend topping. It’s a bigger version of KFC’s Famous Bowls.
What variants of the Mac & Cheese Bowl are available?
KFC offers an Original Mac & Cheese Bowl and a Spicy Nashville Hot Mac & Cheese Bowl. Both are part of KFC’s Fill Up lineup. Availability and variants may change by restaurant and promotion.
How many calories are in a Mac & Cheese Bowl?
Calories in a bowl vary by version and combo. They usually range from 520–810 kcal. For example, a standard bowl has about 660 kcal, and the Nashville Hot version has around 610 kcal. Exact calories depend on toppings and combo choices.
What are the main macronutrients and nutritional concerns?
A bowl version has about 22–36 g total fat, 42–44 g carbohydrates, and 30 g protein. A big concern is high sodium, with some spicy versions having over 2,180 mg. So, be careful if you’re sensitive to sodium.
Which allergens are present in the Mac & Cheese Bowl?
The bowl contains milk (dairy), egg, soy, and wheat (gluten). KFC also warns of cross-contact risk due to shared kitchen equipment. Customers with strict allergies should check in-store nutrition guides or KFC’s Special Diets page.
How was the bowl priced and promoted at launch?
The Mac & Cheese Bowl was launched in August 2019 for . It was marketed as an affordable, filling option. The Fill Up included the bowl, a medium drink, and a cookie. Prices can reach about .99 in some areas.
Where and how can I buy the Mac & Cheese Bowl?
You can buy it at participating KFC restaurants nationwide. It’s available for dine-in, drive-thru, the KFC app, and delivery platforms. Prices and packaging may vary by channel and location.
What does the Mac & Cheese Bowl taste and feel like?
It has a rich, creamy macaroni base with a velvety sauce and a savory three-cheese blend. The hand-breaded chicken adds a crunchy, salty contrast. The Nashville Hot variant adds a spicy coating for those who like heat. It’s designed to be a hearty, comforting main.
Can I recreate the KFC cheesy mac at home or modify it for special diets?
Yes. You can make a copycat version using short pasta, a roux-based cheese sauce, and hand-breaded chicken or plant-based substitutes. For dietary swaps, use dairy-free cheeses, gluten-free pasta and breading, or air-fried/oven-baked proteins. This helps control allergens, calories, and sodium.
