Best 2 Panera Mac Cheese Recipes

With its velvety smooth texture, tantalizing cheesy flavor, and perfect balance of spices, Panera Mac and Cheese has captured the hearts of macaroni and cheese enthusiasts everywhere. If you're looking to recreate this culinary delight in your own kitchen, you'll be pleased to know that it's easier than you think. With just a few simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up a delicious homemade version that rivals the Panera original.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

PANERA MAC & CHEESE

Panera Mac & Cheese image

I have been looking for this yummy, very filling recipe and finally found it on a People magazine website. I think it tastes exactly like Panera, especially when reheated. Don't forget to add milk when reheating. I am writing this recipe as published, adding my little notes. Please read my edits before attempting to make this...I copied the recipe as written but I do not put anyour hot sauce in mine. 12/13/11 - I am changing the hot sauce to optional...The second time I made this, my DH put a little more than the 1/4 tsp (probably 1 extra drop) and all you could taste was hot sauce. I started making it without the hot sauce and it's fine. 3/21/16...I looked up this recipe for the milk measurement and the only word I saw was GROSS...lol...anyway...I DO NOT use hot sauce when I make mine...put too much in once and it was gross...when I put the dijon mustard in...I put half the amount in and taste it and go from there...Do not use yellow mustard because it will be tangy.

Provided by Chef Shelby

Categories Pasta Shells

Time 40m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

1 (16 ounce) package small shell pasta
1/4 cup butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups 2% low-fat milk (I used 1% milk)
6 slices American cheese, chopped (I used Land O Lakes white, presliced from the deli)
1 cup extra-sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded (I used an 8 oz block of Cabot Vermont extra sharp and cut into small pieces for better melting)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (I used a store brand-start with half the amount and taste as you go)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional-I do not recommend using it. If you add too much then all you taste is the hot sauce)
paprika (optional-I use smoked paprika)

Steps:

Prepare pasta according to package directions.
Melt butter in a Dutch oven over low heat. (I just used a regular pan) Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute, whisking constantly.
Gradually whisk in milk, cook over medium heat, whisking until mixture thickens and is bubbly. Remove from heat.
Add cheeses, mustard, salt, and hot sauce, stirring until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
Stir in pasta and cook over medium heat, 1 minute or until thoroughly heated. Sprinkle with paprika if desired. Serve immediately.

PANERA MAC & CHEESE

Panera Mac & Cheese image

Categories Pasta

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1/4 cup Butter (unsalted)
1/4 cup Flour
1 cup Milk
2 cups Heavy Cream
8 ounces Cheddar (white, shredded)
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Black pepper
1 teaspoon Dry mustard
1 pound Pasta (cavatappi)

Steps:

Cook pasta according to instructions, drain and set aside until ready to use.
In a large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat, then whisk in flour to cook for one minute. Reduce heat to medium and add milk, cream, salt, pepper and mustard. Whisk until it begins to simmer, then reduce to low and add cheese, whisking until melted.
Add cooked pasta and stir until combined. Allow to sit for 5 minutes to thicken.

Tips:

Use high-quality ingredients: Freshly grated cheese, creamy milk, and flavorful pasta will make a big difference in the final dish.
Don't overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions, or slightly al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and absorb too much sauce.
Make a roux: A roux is a mixture of butter and flour that helps to thicken the cheese sauce. It also adds a rich, nutty flavor.
Use a variety of cheeses: A blend of sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère cheeses will create a complex and flavorful sauce.
Season the sauce to taste: Add salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.
Top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs: A crispy breadcrumb topping adds texture and flavor to the dish.
Bake the mac and cheese until bubbly and golden brown: This will help to melt the cheese and create a delicious crust.

Conclusion:

Panera's mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that can be easily made at home. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that the whole family will love. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, Panera's mac and cheese is sure to please.