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Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Panera Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish with an ultra-smooth white cheddar cheese sauce coating tender pasta. This homemade version replicates the iconic café favorite with simple ingredients and rich, velvety texture. Perfect as a main course or side, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both indulgent and easy to make at home.

ingredients

Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe this Recipe
Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe 10 Panera Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish with an ultra-smooth white cheddar cheese sauce coating tender pasta. This homemade version replicates the iconic café favorite with simple ingredients and rich, velvety texture. Perfect as a main course or side, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both indulgent and easy to make at home.

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

pasta shells or elbow macaroni
butter
all-purpose flour
whole milk
heavy cream
white cheddar cheese (shredded)
salt
white pepper (optional)
Dijon mustard or hot sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)

directions

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened.

Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded white cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.

Season with salt and white pepper. Add a touch of Dijon mustard or hot sauce if desired.

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.

Serve warm and creamy.

Servings and timing

Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe
Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe 11 Panera Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish with an ultra-smooth white cheddar cheese sauce coating tender pasta. This homemade version replicates the iconic café favorite with simple ingredients and rich, velvety texture. Perfect as a main course or side, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both indulgent and easy to make at home.

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.
Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a savory twist.
Mix in steamed broccoli or peas for extra nutrients.
Try a blend of white cheddar and Gruyère for a gourmet version.
Top with breadcrumbs and bake for a crunchy crust.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen.
Do not freeze, as the cheese sauce may separate when thawed.

FAQs

What kind of cheese does Panera use?
Sharp white Vermont cheddar is the signature cheese.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
It’s better to shred your own for the smoothest sauce—pre-shredded may contain anti-caking agents.

Is it spicy with Dijon or hot sauce?
No, they enhance flavor without adding heat.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

What milk is best to use?
Whole milk gives the best texture and flavor.

Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, but keep white cheddar as the base for that classic taste.

Why is my sauce grainy?
Melt cheese over low heat and avoid overheating to keep it smooth.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely—it’s a favorite for kids and adults alike.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just scale ingredients accordingly and use a larger pot.

Does this taste like the real thing?
Yes, it’s a close homemade match to the original Panera Mac and Cheese.

Conclusion

Panera Mac and Cheese is rich, velvety, and irresistibly cheesy—the ultimate comfort food you can easily recreate at home. Whether for a quick lunch, cozy dinner, or indulgent side dish, this recipe captures the signature flavor and texture you love from the café, all from your own kitchen.

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Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

  • Author: slsrecipes
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish/Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

Creamy, velvety, rich macaroni and cheese inspired by Panera’s famous version—smooth cheese sauce coating tender elbow pasta for ultimate comfort.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp ground mustard
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 2 oz Parmesan cheese, finely grated

Instructions

  1. Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook 1–2 minutes.
  3. Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth.
  4. Add salt, mustard, paprika, and cayenne. Continue to whisk and heat until sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan until melted and fully combined.
  6. Add drained macaroni back into the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
  7. Heat through for 1–2 minutes, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra cheese or a sprinkle of paprika or breadcrumbs.

Notes

  • Use real grated cheese—not pre-shredded—for best melt and texture.
  • Gruyère adds depth—substitute extra sharp cheddar if unavailable.
  • For a crunchy topping, place under broiler for 1–2 minutes with breadcrumbs and cheese.
  • Leftovers can be reheated gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.