Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese
This copycat Panera mac and cheese is a thick, ultra-creamy stovetop macaroni and cheese made with a white cheddar and American cheese sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's the ultimate comfort food the whole family will love — and it tastes just like (or better than) the real thing.
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 pound small cut pasta (I used shells)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk whole milk for a thick sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup American cheese
- 2 teaspoons dry mustard
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to the package directions1 pound small cut pasta
- Meanwhile in a saucepan melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 2 or 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Whisk in milk and heavy cream.1/4 cup butter, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2 cups milk, 1 cup heavy cream
- Slowly add cheese, stirring until smooth and completely melted. Season with dry mustard, salt and pepper.1 cup white cheddar cheese, 1 cup American cheese, 2 teaspoons dry mustard, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Add cooked pasta and mix until well combined.
- Serve immediately
Video
Notes
- Cheese: Always shred cheese fresh from the block. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that make the sauce grainy.
- Make it spicy: Add hot sauce, cayenne, or red pepper flakes to taste.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Make ahead: Store the sauce and pasta separately for best results.
Nutrition
Calories: 574kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 39g | Saturated Fat: 23g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 116mg | Sodium: 1510mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g
