Panera Mac & Cheese Recipe

Recreate the creamy, rich Panera Mac & Cheese at home with this easy recipe! Made with Vermont white cheddar, butter, milk, and pasta, this dish is a kid-friendly favorite and a comfort food classic. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, enjoy it as a stovetop treat or baked with a crispy topping. Discover tips, substitutions, and serving suggestions to make this mac and cheese recipe uniquely yours!

Ingredients

Pasta

• 1 lb. medium pasta shells or elbow macaroni

Roux

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup flour

White Cheddar Sauce

• 3 cups Cracker Barrel Vermont White Cheddar, shredded (1 block = 2 cups)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups milk (preferably whole)

Seasonings

• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder (or 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard)
• 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

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Instructions

1. Shred the Cheese:
Shred the white cheddar cheese and set it aside to reach room temperature before adding it to the sauce.

2. Cook the Pasta:
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain well when done. Begin preparing the sauce while the pasta cooks.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

• Pro Tip: Have all ingredients measured and ready before starting the sauce.
• Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color.
• Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk. Cook and whisk continuously for about 3 minutes until the mixture is smooth.
• Stir in the salt, pepper, mustard powder (or Dijon), and hot sauce (if using).
• Lower the heat to low. Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and thickened. Remove from heat.

4. Combine:
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir until well coated. Serve immediately for a creamy stovetop mac and cheese experience.

5. Optional Baking Method:
If you prefer baked mac and cheese:

• Use 3/4 lb. of pasta instead of the full pound to prevent it from absorbing too much sauce while baking.
• Boil the pasta for 1 minute less than al dente.
• Transfer the sauced pasta to a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Optionally, top with 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers.
• Bake at 325°F for 15 minutes. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The perfect blend of white cheddar and creamy sauce makes this mac and cheese incredibly indulgent.
• Panera-Inspired: Recreate the comforting, restaurant-quality mac and cheese at home.
• Kid-Friendly: A guaranteed hit for kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Easily adapted for stovetop or baked versions to suit your preference.

Tips

• Room Temperature Cheese: Ensure the cheese is at room temperature for smooth melting.
• Whisk Constantly: This prevents lumps while preparing the roux and sauce.
• Seasoning Adjustments: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• Avoid Overcooking: If baking, slightly undercook the pasta to prevent mushiness.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Options: Swap white cheddar for sharp cheddar, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a flavor twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for added depth.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative.
• Toppings: For baked mac and cheese, try topping with panko breadcrumbs, crushed pretzels, or even crispy bacon bits.

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: It’s better to shred cheese from a block, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Heat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess, or reheat in the oven at 325°F covered with foil.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the sauce and pasta separately. Combine and bake just before serving for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or BBQ ribs for a hearty dinner.
• Add a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet touch.

Enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience with this Panera-style mac and cheese recipe, perfect for any occasion!