Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy & Comforting
If you’ve ever been to Panera Bread, you know that their mac and cheese is one of the most iconic comfort foods on the menu. Rich, creamy, and perfectly cheesy, it’s a bowl of pure happiness that keeps people coming back. The good news? You don’t have to wait in line at Panera to enjoy it—you can make this Panera mac and cheese recipe right at home!
This homemade version is silky, smooth, and packed with flavor. Using simple ingredients, you’ll recreate the same restaurant-quality mac and cheese that tastes even better when fresh from your own kitchen.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 1 pound elbow macaroni (16 oz)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for subtle kick)
- 1 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups white cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
- 1 cup yellow sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Cook pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Make roux – In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until golden.
- Add milk & cream – Slowly whisk in warm milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Cook until slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
- Season – Stir in Dijon mustard, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Melt cheese – Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in both cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Combine pasta & sauce – Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently until every piece is coated.
- Serve warm – Enjoy immediately for that creamy, Panera-style comfort.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Serving Size: 6 servings
Tips & Variations
- Extra Creamy: Add an extra splash of cream just before serving.
- Baked Version: Top with breadcrumbs and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until golden.
- Different Cheeses: Try Gruyere, Fontina, or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
- Spicy Twist: Stir in jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or pepper jack cheese.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, bacon, or lobster for a heartier dish.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 19 g |
| Carbohydrates | 46 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Fat: Use reduced-fat milk and light cheddar cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free elbow macaroni and use GF flour.
- Keto-Friendly: Replace pasta with cauliflower florets or shirataki noodles.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegan cheese alternatives.
- Low-Sodium: Reduce cheese and season with herbs instead of salt.
Serving Suggestions
This Panera mac and cheese recipe is best served warm, fresh out of the pot. Pair it with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or a slice of garlic bread for a balanced meal. It’s also the perfect side dish for BBQs, holidays, or cozy family dinners.
Making this at home not only saves you money but also allows you to customize it to your taste. Once you try it, you’ll see why this copycat version is just as delicious—if not better—than the original!
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I reheat Panera mac and cheese?
Yes! Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Q2: Can I freeze this recipe?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat with extra milk.
Q3: What cheese does Panera use?
Panera primarily uses Vermont white cheddar, which gives it a rich, sharp flavor.
Q4: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Make the cheese sauce ahead and combine with pasta just before serving for best texture.
Q5: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
It’s not recommended since pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that affect creaminess. Always shred fresh cheese for best results.
