Description
This Panera Mac and Cheese copycat recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort dish that’s easy to make at home with simple pantry ingredients and three types of cheese.
Ingredients
8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
2 cups whole milk
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)
¼ tsp onion powder (optional)
Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and fragrant.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring well to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the sharp white cheddar, mild cheddar, and Parmesan until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne or smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir well to coat. Let it heat through for 1–2 more minutes.
- Serve hot. For a crispy topping, sprinkle extra cheese on top and broil briefly until golden.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt and best flavor.
Shell pasta or cavatappi can be used instead of elbows for a texture twist.
Add cooked bacon bits or roasted broccoli for extra protein or veggies.
Turn into a baked mac and cheese by topping with breadcrumbs and baking at 375°F until bubbly and golden.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
