If you’re craving the rich, creamy goodness of Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese but want to enjoy it at home, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe captures the essence of that beloved restaurant favorite with minimal fuss. The delightful combination of cheeses creates a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to each macaroni piece. Not only is this dish incredibly satisfying, but it’s also straightforward enough for novice cooks to master. Imagine serving this delectable bowl of warmth at your next family gathering or cozy night in. In just under an hour, you can have a comforting meal on the table that rivals any restaurant experience. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and customizable to suit your taste! Join me as we dive into the details of making Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese from scratch in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Elbow Macaroni: Use about 8 ounces of elbow macaroni; cook until al dente for the best texture in your dish.
- Unsalted Butter: Two tablespoons of unsalted butter will enhance the creaminess of the sauce without added salt.
- All-Purpose Flour: Use two tablespoons of flour to create a roux that thickens the cheese sauce.
- Whole Milk: About two cups of whole milk gives the sauce its creamy consistency; avoid skim milk for best results.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar cheese (about two cups) for a robust flavor that mimics Panera’s signature dish.
For the Sauce:
- Cream Cheese: Add four ounces of cream cheese for extra creaminess; let it soften before mixing into the sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt and cook eight ounces of elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in two tablespoons of all-purpose flour until combined. Cook for about one minute until bubbly.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Gradually add two cups of whole milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat until it thickens slightly—about five minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheeses
Stir in two cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese along with four ounces of softened cream cheese into the warm milk mixture. Continue stirring until smooth and melted—this should take about three minutes.
Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add your drained macaroni back into the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly until every piece is coated evenly with that creamy goodness.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Transfer your Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese to bowls or plates immediately while still hot. Drizzle with additional melted butter or sprinkle some extra cheddar on top if desired!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed vegetables like broccoli or spinach
How to Serve Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese
This Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled Chicken: The tender, juicy chicken enhances the creamy texture of the mac and cheese.
- Steamed Broccoli: This adds a healthy crunch that balances the rich and creamy sauce.
- Garlic Bread: A flavorful side that complements the dish and makes every bite delightful.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cheese sauce and pasta separately ahead of time. Cook the pasta for about 6-8 minutes until al dente, then drain and cool. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Storing: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To maintain freshness, ensure that the mac and cheese is completely cooled before sealing.
- Reheating: Gently reheat your Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You may add a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave it in short intervals at medium power, stirring between each interval until heated through.
Suggestions for Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese
Avoid Overcooking the Pasta
One common mistake people make while preparing Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese is overcooking the pasta. Pasta should be cooked al dente, which means it should still have a slight firmness when bitten. Overcooking results in mushy pasta that detracts from the overall texture of your mac and cheese. To achieve the perfect bite, keep an eye on your cooking time and taste test a minute or two before the package instructions suggest. Drain immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process, and rinse briefly with cold water if you are not mixing it right away. This simple tip will elevate your dish significantly.
Skipping the Cheese Sauce Base
Another essential step that many home cooks overlook is creating a proper cheese sauce base. For Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese, this involves making a roux with butter and flour before adding milk and cheese. Skipping this step leads to a lackluster sauce that won’t cling to your pasta effectively. The roux thickens the sauce and gives it that creamy texture you crave. Make sure you cook the roux until it’s bubbly but not browned, then gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. This foundational technique sets your dish up for success.
Not Using Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in your Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese. Pre-packaged cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect meltability and flavor. Instead, opt for freshly grated cheese for a creamier texture and richer taste. Cheddar cheese is ideal, but you can blend different varieties like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added depth. Additionally, consider using whole milk or heavy cream instead of lighter alternatives to achieve that luxurious mouthfeel. Fresh ingredients lead to a noteworthy dish.
Neglecting Seasoning
A frequent oversight in making Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese is neglecting seasoning throughout the cooking process. While cheese adds flavor, you must enhance it with additional spices like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. A pinch of nutmeg can also elevate your dish without overpowering it. Taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors; adding seasonings at various stages can help develop depth in flavor. This attention to detail will transform your mac and cheese from bland to extraordinary.
FAQs
What type of cheese is best for Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese?
When making Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese, choosing the right types of cheese is crucial for achieving that signature creamy texture and rich flavor. The classic choice is sharp cheddar due to its robust flavor profile that pairs well with macaroni. However, blending cheddar with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack enhances both creaminess and complexity in flavor. Gruyère offers a nutty taste while Monterey Jack melts beautifully, contributing to a smooth sauce texture. Always use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-packaged shredded versions for optimal melting properties.
How can I make my Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese spicier?
To add some heat to your Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese, consider incorporating spices or ingredients that enhance flavor without overpowering the original recipe’s essence. One easy method is adding cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into your cheese sauce during preparation; start with a small amount and adjust according to taste preference. Alternatively, mix in diced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick while maintaining creaminess. These additions will spice up your dish while keeping it deliciously comforting.
Can I prepare Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese ahead of time! To do this efficiently, cook the macaroni al dente and prepare your cheese sauce as directed. Once combined, allow it to cool before transferring it into an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in an oven-safe dish; add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess during reheating. This technique saves time on busy days while still delivering satisfying comfort food.
Is there a gluten-free option for Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese into a gluten-free version by substituting traditional pasta with gluten-free alternatives made from rice or lentils available at most grocery stores today. Additionally, ensure that any thickeners or sauces used are certified gluten-free as well; this includes using gluten-free flour when making your roux for the cheese sauce base. By taking these steps, you can enjoy this beloved dish without compromising dietary needs.
Conclusion
In summary, creating perfect Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese requires attention to detail at every stage of preparation—from selecting fresh ingredients to mastering techniques like making a roux and seasoning effectively. Avoid common mistakes such as overcooking pasta or neglecting seasoning throughout cooking; these pitfalls can negatively impact your final result significantly. By following these guidelines closely, you’ll deliver a creamy dish bursting with flavor reminiscent of its restaurant counterpart while enjoying homemade comfort food at its finest!
Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Craving the creamy, cheesy goodness of Panera’s famous mac and cheese? Now you can enjoy it right at home with this easy and satisfying recipe! This delightful dish features a rich blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese, creating a velvety sauce that perfectly coats each piece of elbow macaroni. Quick to prepare and budget-friendly, it’s an ideal meal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. In under an hour, you can serve up a comforting bowl of deliciousness that rivals your favorite restaurant experience. Plus, feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente; drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook for one minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk and simmer until thickened (about five minutes).
- Stir in cheddar and cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with extra cheddar or melted butter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 502
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
