Easy Copycat Panera Macaroni and Cheese

If you’re a fan of Panera’s creamy and flavorful mac and cheese, this easy copycat recipe will bring that comforting dish right into your own kitchen. Rich, creamy, and smooth with the perfect balance of sharp white cheddar and optional American cheese for extra creaminess, this homemade version will satisfy your mac and cheese cravings with just a few simple ingredients. Plus, it’s quick to make, so you can enjoy your favorite dish without the trip to Panera!

The secret to making this mac and cheese so rich is the creamy roux made with butter, flour, milk, and heavy cream, which serves as the perfect base for the melty, cheesy sauce. Stir in the Dijon mustard, black pepper, and salt to elevate the flavor, and you’ve got a bowl of mac and cheese that rivals any restaurant! Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or as a main course, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy

This recipe uses heavy cream and whole milk to create a smooth and velvety cheese sauce, making each bite extra indulgent.

2. Panera-Inspired

With its signature creamy texture and flavor, this copycat Panera mac and cheese brings your favorite restaurant dish to your kitchen.

3. Simple Ingredients

No complicated ingredients here—just a few pantry staples, like butter, flour, milk, and cheese, come together to create this decadent dish.

4. Quick and Easy

Ready in less than 30 minutes, this mac and cheese recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.

5. Customizable

You can easily adjust the cheese for extra creaminess or add more seasoning to match your taste preferences.

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni or shell pasta
• Unsalted butter
• All-purpose flour
• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Dijon mustard
• Salt (adjust to taste)
• Black pepper
• White cheddar cheese (shredded)
• American cheese (cubed, optional for extra creaminess)

Variations

• Extra Cheesy: Use a combination of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack cheeses for even more flavor complexity.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Mac: Add cooked broccoli, spinach, or roasted tomatoes to your mac and cheese for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Vegan Mac and Cheese: Use dairy-free milk, plant-based butter, and vegan cheeses to make a plant-based version of this mac and cheese.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and smooth. This will remove the raw flour taste and help thicken your sauce.

Step 3: Add Milk and Cream

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce starts to thicken.

Step 4: Flavor the Sauce

Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded white cheddar cheese and cubed American cheese (if using), stirring until both cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated and well mixed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the mac and cheese warm, optionally topping with extra shredded cheese for garnish.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: For the best texture and melt, always use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of your sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your cheese sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the salt, pepper, or mustard to your liking.
• Prevent Clumps: When adding the milk and cream, pour it in slowly while whisking to avoid lumps.
• For Extra Creaminess: Stir in an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream or use a little more American cheese if you want your mac and cheese extra creamy.

How to Serve

Serve this creamy, cheesy mac and cheese as a stand-alone main dish or as a side to complement grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. It’s also perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any comfort food gathering. For an added touch, sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top or add a few fresh herbs, like parsley, for garnish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Leftovers will stay fresh for 3-4 days.

Freezing

While mac and cheese can be frozen, the texture may change slightly when reheated. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the mac and cheese over low heat in a saucepan, stirring in a splash of milk or cream to restore its creaminess. You can also reheat it in the microwave, adding a little milk to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as elbow macaroni, shell pasta, or penne.

2. Can I use skim milk instead of whole milk?

For the creamiest texture, whole milk is preferred. However, you can substitute with skim milk or 2% milk if needed, though it may not be as creamy.

3. Is the American cheese necessary?

American cheese adds extra creaminess, but it’s optional. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can skip it and use more cheddar cheese.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the mac and cheese, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a splash of milk while reheating to keep it creamy.

5. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce isn’t thick enough, cook it for a few more minutes to reduce it, or add a bit more cheese to help thicken it up.

6. Can I add vegetables to the mac and cheese?

Yes, cooked broccoli, spinach, or other veggies can be added to the mac and cheese for added flavor and nutrition.

7. Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute if you need a gluten-free option.

8. How do I make the mac and cheese spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for some heat.

9. Can I freeze mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze mac and cheese, but it’s best eaten within 2 months for optimal texture.

10. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s best to shred your cheese fresh to avoid the anti-caking agents in pre-shredded cheese that can affect texture and meltability.

Conclusion

This Easy Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese is the perfect comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients, and you can customize it to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or making it the star of your meal, this homemade mac and cheese will surely become a family favorite!

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