Name: Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe – (BEST Copycat!)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb medium pasta shells or elbow macaroni; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup flour; 3 cups Cracker Barrel Vermont Sharp White Cheddar Cheese (shredded); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups milk (preferably whole); 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon mustard powder (can sub Dijon mustard); 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (Optional, see notes)

Introduction to Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’ve ever tasted Panera's Mac and Cheese, you know it’s not your average comfort food. The deliciously creamy, rich flavor is something that lingers in your memory and leaves you craving more. But did you know that making a copycat version in your own kitchen can be surprisingly simple and incredibly satisfying? This Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe transforms a beloved classic into a homemade delight that you can customize to suit your taste!

Why Homemade Mac and Cheese is a Game Changer

There’s something special about creating your own version of mac and cheese. When you whip up a batch at home, you have full control over the ingredients and flavors. Imagine using sharp white cheddar, perhaps adding some turkey bacon for a bit of crunch, or topping it with crushed Ritz crackers for that extra layer of deliciousness. Why stick to the standard when you can experiment?

Plus, cooking at home can be healthier and more economical than ordering out. You’ll not only save money but also impress family and friends with your culinary skills. If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game, making this creamy, decadent dish might just be the ticket. Stay tuned for the full, easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

For more on the magic of homemade recipes, check out this article to explore different cooking techniques and variations!

Ingredients for Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

Essential ingredients for the base

Creating your own delightful Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe starts with the right foundation. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb. medium pasta shells or elbow macaroni: These shapes hold the cheese sauce beautifully.
For the roux:
¼ cup butter: This adds richness to the sauce.
¼ cup flour: This thickens your sauce and gives it a creamy texture.
White Cheddar Sauce:
3 cups shredded Cracker Barrel Vermont Sharp White Cheddar Cheese: The star of your mac and cheese!
1 cup heavy cream: Adds smoothness and depth.
2 cups milk: Whole milk is ideal for maximum creaminess.
Seasonings:
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon mustard powder or substitute with Dijon mustard for a twist.

Optional add-ins for extra flavor

Why stop at the basics when you can elevate your Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe? Consider these flavorful add-ins:

Turkey Bacon: For a smoky, savory touch.
Crushed Ritz crackers: A delightful crunch when baked on top.
Chicken Ham: Adds a savory protein boost.
Sautéed vegetables: Think spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Feel free to mix and match to find your perfect version! For more tips on ingredient selection, check out Bon Appétit’s Guide to Cheeses.

Step-by-step preparation for Panera Mac and Cheese

Making a creamy and delicious Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe at home is a fantastic way to enjoy this comforting dish, and it’s simpler than you might think! Follow these easy steps, and soon you'll be savoring your own homemade version.

Shred the cheese

The first step to achieving that perfect creamy texture is to shred your cheese. Use about 3 cups of Cracker Barrel Vermont Sharp White Cheddar Cheese. Make sure to shred it yourself rather than buying pre-shredded cheese, as the latter often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process. Let your shredded cheese come to room temperature while you prep the rest of the ingredients – this will help it melt more seamlessly into your sauce later.

Boil the pasta

While the cheese is coming to room temperature, you’ll want to focus on the pasta. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1 pound of medium pasta shells or elbow macaroni. It's best to follow the package instructions for cooking time, aiming for al dente so the pasta can still absorb some of that luscious cheese sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Prepare the roux

In a medium saucepan, melt ¼ cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in ¼ cup of flour and cook for about a minute until it turns a light golden color. This roux acts as the thickening agent for your cheese sauce, creating the luxurious texture we're aiming for.

Create the white cheddar sauce

Now it's time to make your sauce! Gradually whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of milk (preferably whole). Continue whisking for about three minutes until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. At this point, add ¾ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon mustard powder, and if you're feeling adventurous, a dash of hot sauce to enhance the flavor without adding spiciness. Reduce the heat to low and slowly sprinkle in your shredded cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is creamy and luscious.

Combine pasta and sauce

Once your white cheddar sauce is ready, it's time to marry it with your pasta! Pour the cheese sauce over the drained pasta and stir until every nook and cranny is coated in that cheesy goodness. Take a moment to admire your creation – it’s looking pretty amazing already!

Optional baking steps

If you crave that baked mac and cheese crunch, consider transferring your mixture to a lightly greased 9 x 13 inch casserole dish. For added texture, top with 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers. Bake at 325°F for about 15 minutes, letting it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This crispy topping will elevate your homemade Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe to a whole new level of yum!

Enjoy this indulgent dish either right off the stovetop or baked – both options are sure to impress!

Variations on Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking to spice up your Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe, there are countless delicious twists you can try! Here are three variations to kick things up a notch:

Cheesy Turkey Bacon Twist

Add a savory crunch by mixing in crispy turkey bacon. Simply cook the bacon until crispy, crumble it, and stir it into the mac and cheese just before serving. This addition adds a delightful, smoky flavor that complements the creaminess.

Veggie-Packed Mac and Cheese

For a nutritious boost, toss in your favorite veggies! Consider adding steamed broccoli, roasted bell peppers, or sautéed spinach. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more colorful and appealing.

Spicy Mac with Hot Sauce

If you like a kick, don’t shy away from adding a few dashes of your preferred hot sauce. It adds both depth and a hint of heat that can transform each creamy bite into an adventure.

With these variations, you can easily personalize your mac and cheese experience! For more inspiration, check out these creative macaroni recipes.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Panera Mac and Cheese

Making a delicious Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe is easier than you think! Here are some helpful tips to elevate your culinary game:

Cheese Matters: For that perfect creaminess, ensure your cheese is shredded and at room temperature before adding it to the sauce. Consider mixing in a bit of Gouda or Gruyère for a unique twist!
Texture Check: If baking, slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy as it absorbs moisture. The goal is to maintain that al dente texture.
Make-Ahead Magic: If you want to prep in advance, store the pasta and cheese sauce separately, then combine them just before cooking. This keeps everything fresh!

Feeling inspired? Check out tips on dish variations from sites like Serious Eats for even more creative ideas!