Copycat Panera Mac And Cheese

If you’re a fan of the rich, creamy mac and cheese from Panera, then you’re in for a treat. This copycat recipe brings that signature comfort food straight to your kitchen with simple ingredients and an easy stovetop process. It’s a dinner-worthy dish that will have you savoring every bite, just like the original.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to make this recipe from scratch. The creamy, cheesy sauce made with sharp white cheddar gives it that signature Panera taste. Plus, it’s versatile enough to use different pasta shapes, depending on what I have on hand. It’s a no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for a quick family meal or a cozy night in. The combination of creamy, cheesy sauce with a bit of Dijon mustard and hot sauce adds depth and a little zing to the classic comfort food.

Ingredients

• Pasta (Elbow, cavatappi, or pipette)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper powder, to taste

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• A few dashes of hot sauce

• 2 cups white sharp cheddar cheese (grated)

(Hopefully, you have a full list of these ingredients ready to go! Check out the full list and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook Pasta: In a stockpot, bring water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain well and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, and season with salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce. Continue to whisk until the sauce begins to bubble and thicken.

3. Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the shredded sharp white cheddar. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated. If you prefer your mac and cheese a bit saucier, feel free to add a splash more milk and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper.

Servings and Timing

This recipe typically makes 4 servings, and it takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s the perfect dish when you want something rich and comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Variations

• Cheese Varieties: While sharp white cheddar is the best for that authentic Panera taste, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Parmesan for a twist.

• Add-ins: To make this mac and cheese even heartier, I love adding cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms.

• Spice Level: If you like your mac and cheese with a little extra kick, try adding more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Storage/Reheating

This mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of milk to bring the creaminess back to life. You can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave, checking every 30 seconds to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

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

Yes! While Panera uses pipette pasta, you can easily substitute with elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or any pasta shape you prefer.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat it slowly over low heat, adding a little extra milk if needed.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you want a spicy kick, try adding more hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sauce while cooking.

Can I freeze leftovers?

I don’t recommend freezing mac and cheese, as the texture may change when reheated. However, if you do freeze it, be sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat it slowly, adding extra milk to restore its creaminess.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives. For the creamy sauce, opt for coconut or almond milk, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute.

Conclusion

This Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese recipe is an absolute winner for anyone who craves a creamy, cheesy dish with the comforting flavors of Panera’s signature mac and cheese. It’s quick, easy, and can be customized to your liking. Whether you stick to the original recipe or add your own twist, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try it out!