Description
This Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese recipe recreates the creamy, cheesy comfort food classic beloved by Panera Bread fans. It features tender small shell pasta coated in a rich cheese sauce made from a blend of white cheddar and American cheese, with a smooth béchamel base enhanced by dry mustard, salt, and pepper for a perfect balance of flavors. Easy to make on the stovetop and ready in under 30 minutes, this homemade mac and cheese is a satisfying dish for any cheese lover.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 pound small cut pasta (shells preferred)
Cheese Sauce
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups skim milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup American cheese, chopped or shredded
- 2 teaspoons dry mustard
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the small shell pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes while constantly stirring to form a roux and remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Dairy: Gradually whisk in the skim milk and heavy cream to the roux, ensuring a smooth mixture without lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Melt Cheese and Season: Slowly add the shredded white cheddar and American cheese to the sauce, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with dry mustard, salt, and black pepper for depth of flavor.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat every piece evenly.
- Serve: Serve the mac and cheese immediately while hot and creamy for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, you can add a splash more heavy cream or milk if the sauce is too thick.
- Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting consistency.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; add more salt or mustard if desired.
- If you prefer a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs and broil briefly after combining pasta and sauce.
- This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be gently reheated with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Mac and Cheese, Panera Copycat, Comfort Food, Cheese Sauce, Creamy Pasta, White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
