There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a creamy, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese. When I first tasted Panera’s version, I knew I had to recreate that magic in my own kitchen. The rich blend of cheeses paired with perfectly tender pasta makes it a standout favorite.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Equipment
- Large Pot
Use this to boil the elbow macaroni until it’s perfectly al dente.
- Medium Saucepan
This is essential for creating the creamy cheese sauce on the stovetop.
- Whisk
A whisk ensures your butter, flour, and milk blend smoothly without any lumps.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors.
- Colander
Drain the cooked pasta efficiently with a reliable colander.
- Spatula
Stir and combine your ingredients seamlessly to maintain a smooth consistency.
- Grater
Freshly grate your sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses for the best melt and flavor.
- Baking Dish (Optional)
If you prefer a baked finish with a golden crust, a suitable baking dish will be necessary.
- Oven (Optional)
Preheat your oven to achieve that perfect baked top, if desired.
Directions
Let’s dive into creating this irresistible copycat Panera Mac and Cheese. Follow these steps to achieve that creamy, cheesy perfection.
Prepare Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water.
- Pour in 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and stir to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside.
Make Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, continuing to whisk to ensure a smooth mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until all the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, a pinch of paprika, and a dash of mustard powder to enhance the flavor.
Combine and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni with the prepared cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs over the top to create a crispy golden crust.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the mac and cheese sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing your Panera Mac and Cheese copycat recipe ahead of time is a game-changer for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Here’s how I make it in advance without compromising on that creamy, cheesy goodness.
Preparing Ahead
- Assemble the Dish:
- After cooking and combining the elbow macaroni with the cheese sauce, transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the additional mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
- Add a layer of breadcrumbs for that signature golden crust.
- Cool Completely:
- Allow the assembled mac and cheese to cool to room temperature. This prevents excess moisture from forming during storage.
- Cover and Store:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s well-sealed to maintain freshness.
Reheating Instructions
- Thaw if Frozen:
- If you’ve frozen the mac and cheese, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
- Reheat in Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the covering from the baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from burning.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes if refrigerated or 45-50 minutes if thawed from frozen.
- Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the top to become bubbly and golden brown.
- Reheat on Stovetop (Optional):
- For a quicker option, transfer a portion of the mac and cheese to a saucepan.
- Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Add a splash of milk if the mixture is too thick, ensuring it remains creamy.
Quick Reference Table
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Time |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | Up to 3 days | 25-30 minutes |
| Frozen | Up to 2 months | 45-50 minutes |
By following these make-ahead steps, you can enjoy my take on Panera’s classic mac and cheese any time you crave that rich, comforting flavor without the hassle of starting from scratch.
Serving Suggestions
Elevating your Panera Mac and Cheese copycat recipe is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this comforting dish:
Add a Protein Boost
Incorporate grilled or baked proteins to make your mac and cheese a complete meal:
- Grilled Chicken Breast: Sliced thinly, seasoned with herbs, and served alongside or on top of the pasta.
- Crispy Bacon: Sprinkle crumbled bacon for a smoky, crunchy contrast.
- Roasted Shrimp: Adds a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor.
Pair with Fresh Sides
Complement the richness of the mac and cheese with lighter, fresh sides:
- Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creamy pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets add color and a nutritious crunch.
- Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized with garlic and olive oil for a savory side.
Enhance with Toppings
Customize each serving with delightful toppings to enhance texture and taste:
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Toasted with a bit of butter for extra crunch.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, chives, or thyme for a burst of freshness.
- Hot Sauce or Crushed Red Pepper: For those who crave a spicy kick.
Serve with Artisan Bread
Nothing beats a warm slice of bread with creamy mac and cheese:
- Crusty Baguette: Perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Adds a flavorful, buttery side that complements the dish.
- Buttermilk Biscuits: Soft and fluffy, ideal for a hearty meal.
Beverage Pairings
Choose beverages that enhance the flavors of your meal:
- Crisp White Wine: A Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the rich cheese.
- Iced Tea: Refreshing and slightly sweet to balance the savory notes.
- Craft Beer: A light ale or lager adds a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
Presentation Tips
Make your mac and cheese look as good as it tastes:
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: Serving directly from a heated skillet keeps the dish warm and adds rustic charm.
- Garnish Artistically: A sprinkle of paprika or a drizzle of truffle oil can add visual appeal.
- Individual Portions: Serve in ramekins for an elegant, personalized touch.
By integrating these serving suggestions, you can transform your homemade Panera-style mac and cheese into a memorable and satisfying meal that delights both the eyes and the palate.
Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese
Achieving the perfect mac and cheese requires attention to detail and a few expert techniques. Here are my top tips to ensure your dish rivals Panera’s beloved version:
1. Choose the Right Pasta
Select elbow macaroni or another short pasta shape like cavatappi or shells. These shapes hold the cheese sauce well, ensuring every bite is creamy and flavorful.
2. Cook Pasta to Al Dente
Boil the pasta until just tender, typically 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when baked and maintains a pleasant texture.
3. Create a Smooth Roux
Melt unsalted butter over medium heat and whisk in an equal amount of flour. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste. A smooth roux is essential for a creamy cheese sauce.
4. Gradually Add Dairy
Slowly pour in whole milk and heavy cream while continuously whisking. This gradual addition prevents lumps and ensures a silky smooth sauce. Heat the mixture until it thickens slightly before adding the cheeses.
5. Use High-Quality Cheeses
Combine sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses for depth of flavor and excellent meltability. Freshly grated cheese melts better and integrates more smoothly into the sauce than pre-shredded varieties.
6. Balance the Flavors
Season the cheese sauce with a mix of salt, pepper, and a touch of mustard powder or paprika. These seasonings enhance the cheese’s natural flavors without overpowering them.
7. Incorporate a Variety of Textures
Add a crunchy topping by mixing panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkling it over the mac and cheese before baking. This creates a delightful contrast to the creamy interior.
8. Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly, usually about 25-30 minutes. Baking allows the flavors to meld and the top to develop a satisfying crunch.
9. Let It Rest
Allow the mac and cheese to sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This rest period helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier, ensuring each scoop is perfectly creamy.
10. Customize with Add-Ins
Enhance your mac and cheese by adding proteins like grilled chicken or crispy bacon, and vegetables such as steamed broccoli or roasted tomatoes. These additions create a more balanced and hearty meal.
11. Reheat Properly
When storing leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess, or bake in the oven covered with foil to preserve texture. Avoid microwaving for the best results.
12. Presentation Matters
Serve your mac and cheese in a warm, oven-safe dish or individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness.
By following these tips, you’ll master the art of making decadent, restaurant-quality mac and cheese right in your kitchen.
Conclusion
Recreating Panera’s mac and cheese at home has been a fun and rewarding experience for me. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a bowl of creamy and cheesy goodness made with my own hands.
Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy night in or serving it to friends and family, this recipe always hits the spot. I hope you find as much joy in making and eating it as I do!
