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Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

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Panera-style Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a creamy, velvety cheese sauce that perfectly coats tender elbow pasta. This easy-to-make dish brings the flavors of Panera’s famous mac and cheese right to your kitchen for a cozy, indulgent meal.

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)

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. The mixture should be bubbly and slightly golden.
  3. Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
  4. Reduce 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

Add sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli for extra flavor and texture.For a spicy version, add cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or hot sauce.Top with breadcrumbs and bake at 350°F (175°C) for a crunchy topping.Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/panera-mac-and-cheese-recipe/