Panera Bread Mac and Cheese Recipe: A Copycat Attempt
Craving that creamy, dreamy Panera Bread mac and cheese? You're in luck! While we can't replicate the exact Panera recipe (that's a closely guarded secret!), we can get surprisingly close with this delicious copycat version. This recipe focuses on achieving that signature rich, cheesy flavor and perfectly cooked pasta. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever you get a craving.
- Pasta: 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your preferred short pasta)
- Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup
- Milk: 4 cups whole milk (for extra creaminess!)
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (adds richness and texture)
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (the sharper, the better!)
- Gruyere Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (adds a nutty, complex flavor)
- Fontina Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (provides melt-ability and smoothness)
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for a touch of color and flavor)
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for added depth)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create your own Panera-inspired mac and cheese:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Don't overcook! Slightly undercooked pasta will finish cooking perfectly in the cheese sauce.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. This is the base of your creamy sauce.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. This takes patience and a steady hand! Don't rush this step; it's crucial for the sauce's consistency.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Add the cheddar, Gruyere, and Fontina cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Season and Combine
Stir in the salt, pepper, paprika (if using), and garlic powder (if using). Add the cooked macaroni and gently toss to coat evenly in the cheese sauce.
Step 6: Bake (Optional)
For an extra decadent touch, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Tips for Panera-Perfect Mac and Cheese
- Cheese Quality Matters: Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
- Freshly Grated Cheese: Shred your own cheese for optimal melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent smooth melting.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Give the sauce enough space to thicken properly.
- Taste and Adjust: Season to your liking. You might want more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade Panera-style mac and cheese hot. It's delicious on its own, or you can pair it with grilled chicken, breadsticks, or a side salad.
This copycat recipe brings you wonderfully close to the magic of Panera's mac and cheese. Enjoy! Let us know in the comments how your version turned out! We'd love to hear your feedback and tips.
