Panera Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Panera Mac and Cheese is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare at home. The creamy, decadent cheese sauce, combined with perfectly cooked macaroni, delivers that signature indulgence you’ve come to expect from the Panera Bread restaurant. This recipe is customizable to suit your taste preferences and can be made in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, it’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste.

3. Gradually add the milk to the flour mixture, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.

5. Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust seasoning to taste.

6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine, ensuring all the pasta is coated.

7. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Panera Mac and Cheese!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick.

• Vegetarian Mac and Cheese: You can add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a more nutritious twist.

• Vegan Mac and Cheese: Swap out the dairy for plant-based milk and vegan cheese, and use a non-dairy butter substitute.

• Baked Mac and Cheese: After combining the macaroni and cheese sauce, transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a little milk to loosen the sauce as it may thicken. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.

FAQs

How can I make Panera Mac and Cheese spicier?

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a few drops of hot sauce to the cheese sauce to give it a spicy kick.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, shells, or rotini.

How do I prevent my mac and cheese from becoming grainy?

To avoid a grainy texture, make sure to melt the cheese over low heat and stir constantly. Also, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness.

Can I freeze leftover mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze mac and cheese for up to 3 months. When reheating, be sure to add a little extra milk to restore the creaminess.

What can I serve with this mac and cheese?

Panera Mac and Cheese pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as grilled chicken, a fresh salad, or even a hearty soup.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. If you want to bake it, add breadcrumbs and bake just before serving.

Conclusion

This Panera Mac and Cheese recipe brings the restaurant-quality comfort food into your home with ease. Rich, creamy, and utterly delicious, it’s perfect for a quick family meal or for impressing guests. With endless variations to try, you’ll never tire of this ultimate mac and cheese dish. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your own twist, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.