Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Panera’s Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce with tender elbow pasta. What makes this recipe so special is the balance of flavors from the sharp cheddar and the creamy, smooth sauce that’s rich without being overwhelming. It’s a quick and easy recipe to make, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal, a potluck, or even as a side dish for a BBQ. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add , bread crumbs, or vegetables to personalize it and make it your own!

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

Cook the pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. The mixture should become bubbly and slightly golden.
Add the liquids: Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
Add the cheese and seasonings: Reduce the heat to low, and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your creamy, homemade mac and cheese!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add-ins: sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli to your mac and cheese for extra flavor and texture.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or hot sauce to give the mac and cheese a little kick.
Breadcrumb topping: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese and bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until golden brown.
Use different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack for different flavors. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well for a smooth sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

Conclusion

This Panera-style Mac and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, delivering creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or craving a deliciously rich meal, this mac and cheese is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. With its velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta, it’s the perfect dish to indulge in when you want something comforting and delicious!