Panera Mac and Cheese

Rich, creamy, and utterly comforting, Panera Mac and Cheese is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The pasta is tender yet toothsome, cloaked in a velvety cheese sauce that clings to every curve. With its signature buttery richness and perfectly balanced tang, it’s no wonder this dish has become a beloved favorite for both kids and adults.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe carries the nostalgia of cozy café meals and rainy afternoons when only comfort food will do. Panera Bread first introduced its mac and cheese as a simple but indulgent option that quickly gained cult status. Recreating it at home means you can savor that same creamy decadence anytime, without waiting in line or leaving your kitchen.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Panera’s Mac and Cheese became so popular that it was once only served on the kid’s menu but soon graduated to a star entrée. It’s known for its Vermont white cheddar sauce, a departure from the standard yellow cheddar often used in mac and cheese. This swap gives the dish a distinct, sophisticated flavor while still keeping it familiar and crave-worthy.

Why You’ll Love Panera Mac and Cheese

This one’s a total game-changer—it’s decadent yet simple enough for weeknight dinners.

Versatile: Perfect as a main dish, side, or even a potluck star.

Budget-Friendly: Way cheaper than frequent café visits.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal fuss.

Customizable: Add toppings like breadcrumbs, bacon crumbles, or veggies.

Crowd-Pleasing: A universal comfort food favorite.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Sauce reheats well for next-day indulgence.

Great for Leftovers: Just add a splash of milk when reheating for creamy goodness.

Print

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Want your mac and cheese to rival Panera’s? Here’s how:

• Cook pasta just until al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
• Shred cheese from a block—pre-shredded doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Add cheese off the heat to avoid grainy sauce.
• A pinch of mustard powder enhances the cheddar flavor.
• Use whole milk and heavy cream for maximum creaminess.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

These simple tools will set you up for success:

Large Pot: For boiling pasta.

Colander: To drain pasta quickly.

Medium Saucepan: For building the creamy cheese sauce.

Whisk: Ensures a lump-free béchamel base.

Wooden Spoon: For stirring pasta into the sauce evenly.

Ingredients in Panera Mac and Cheese

Each component plays its part in creating that signature creamy indulgence. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound – The classic pasta shape that hugs the sauce.
2. Butter: 4 tablespoons – Forms the base of a rich roux.
3. All-Purpose Flour: ¼ cup – Thickens the sauce to silky perfection.
4. Whole Milk: 2 ½ cups – Creamy body and smooth texture.
5. Heavy Cream: 1 cup – Adds indulgent richness.
6. Vermont White Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups, shredded – The star flavor of this dish.
7. Salt: 1 teaspoon – Balances and enhances flavors.
8. Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon – Subtle warmth and depth.
9. Mustard Powder: ½ teaspoon – Boosts the cheese flavor with a gentle tang.

Ingredient Substitutions

Flexibility is always welcome in the kitchen. Try these swaps:

Elbow Macaroni: Shells, cavatappi, or rotini.

White Cheddar: Sharp yellow cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.

Heavy Cream: Half-and-half for a lighter version.

Mustard Powder: Dijon mustard for similar flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

Vermont White Cheddar: Smooth, tangy, and slightly sharp, this cheese sets Panera’s version apart. Its meltability and bold flavor create a sauce that’s rich without being overpowering.

Instructions for Making Panera Mac and Cheese

Here’s your step-by-step guide to replicating that café favorite at home:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   Cook macaroni until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Slowly whisk in milk and cream, cooking until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Remove saucepan from heat. Gradually stir in shredded cheddar until fully melted and smooth.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Fold in cooked macaroni until every piece is coated in luscious cheese sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Ladle into bowls and serve warm, with an optional sprinkle of extra cheddar on top.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

What makes Panera’s version special is the silky, glossy sauce that clings lovingly to pasta. The cheddar’s tang balances the creaminess, while the roux ensures no graininess. Each bite is indulgent yet perfectly balanced, rich without being heavy.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few insider hacks to nail the dish every time:

• Warm milk before adding to the roux for smoother blending.
• Stir constantly to prevent lumps.
• Add cheese gradually, not all at once.
• Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.

What to Avoid

Steer clear of these common pitfalls:

• Using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
• Overcooking pasta, which turns mushy in the sauce.
• Boiling the sauce after adding cheese—it can separate.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 530

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Panera Mac and Cheese is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing, as dairy-based sauces can separate.

How to Serve Panera Mac and Cheese

Serve it simply in a bowl, or elevate it with toasted breadcrumbs on top. Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted veggies, or even grilled chicken for a heartier meal. It also shines as a side dish for holiday spreads.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Turn leftovers into brand-new dishes:

• Bake with breadcrumbs for a cheesy casserole.
• Stuff into bell peppers for a unique twist.
• Use as a filling for grilled cheese sandwiches.

Additional Tips

• Experiment with cheese blends for different flavor profiles.
• Add a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for brightness.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve in mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins for individual portions. Add a golden breadcrumb topping and broil for a minute for irresistible presentation.

Variations to Try

• Broccoli Cheddar Mac: Stir in roasted broccoli florets.
• Buffalo Mac: Add hot sauce and a sprinkle of blue cheese.
• Bacon Lover’s: Fold in crispy bacon crumbles.
• Four-Cheese Blend: Combine cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Mix in taco seasoning and top with jalapeños.

FAQ’s

Q1. What makes Panera Mac and Cheese different?
Its Vermont white cheddar base, which gives it tangy richness.

Q2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but add extra milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.

Q3. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely—just cook slightly less to prevent mushiness.

Q4. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love its creamy texture and mild flavor.

Q5. Can I lighten this dish?
Use half-and-half instead of cream and less butter.

Q6. How do I prevent grainy sauce?
Add cheese off the heat and stir until melted.

Q7. Can I bake this mac and cheese?
Yes, top with breadcrumbs and bake until golden for a baked version.

Q8. Does Panera really use Vermont cheddar?
Yes, it’s their signature ingredient.

Q9. Can I make it spicy?
Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese.

Q10. How do I make it extra creamy?
Use whole milk, cream, and fresh-shredded cheese for ultimate richness.

Conclusion

Panera Mac and Cheese is pure comfort, a creamy classic that brings joy with every bite. Recreating it at home means you can enjoy its cozy indulgence whenever the craving strikes—trust me, it’s worth every spoonful.

watch how to make Panera Mac and Cheese