Are you a fan of Panera’s creamy and comforting mac and cheese? Do you wish you could recreate that same delicious taste at home? Look no further! We have the ultimate Panera copycat mac and cheese recipe that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Let’s dive into the world of homemade mac and cheese and learn how to make a copycat version that closely mimics the famous Panera dish. The key to success lies in the combination of ingredients and the perfect cooking technique. So, gather your ingredients, follow our step-by-step instructions, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that will make you feel like you’re dining at your favorite bakery-café.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of elbow macaroni
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
- 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes, creating a roux.
- Gradually add the milk and heavy cream to the saucepan, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will create a creamy sauce base.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the salt, black pepper, mustard powder, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the creamy cheese sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Panera copycat mac and cheese with a side of your favorite vegetables or a slice of crusty bread.
Now that you have the ultimate Panera copycat mac and cheese recipe, you can enjoy this comforting dish any time you want. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a warm and creamy meal, this recipe will never disappoint. So, go ahead and make it a staple in your kitchen and indulge in the deliciousness of homemade mac and cheese!
