Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Panera Bread's Mac and Cheese right at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. Panera Bread has become synonymous with quality, comfort food, and their Mac and Cheese stands out as a customer favorite. Here's how you can recreate this cheesy delight with a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of uncooked pasta (elbow or small shells work best)
- 1⁄4 cup of butter
- 1⁄4 cup of flour
- 2 1⁄2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of shredded Velveeta cheese
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of salt
- A dash of black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook until it’s al dente (approximately 7-8 minutes for most pasta). Drain the pasta, reserving about 1⁄4 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
Reduce heat to low, and slowly add the shredded cheeses, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Incorporate the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it by adding a bit of the reserved pasta water.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, mixing until every noodle is thoroughly coated. If the mixture seems too thick or dry, you can add a splash more milk to achieve the desired consistency.
4. Serving and Garnishing
Serve the mac and cheese immediately for the best texture and taste. You can garnish with additional shredded cheese or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor and presentation.
Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese
- Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for a smoother, creamier sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the sauce and may become mushy.
- If baking your mac and cheese, consider adding a breadcrumb topping for a delightful crunch.
💡 Note: For a richer flavor, you can also add a splash of cream to the milk while making the sauce.
In summary, recreating Panera Bread's Mac and Cheese at home allows you to indulge in its creamy, cheesy goodness anytime you desire. With this simple recipe, you can ensure that your version is just as comforting and delicious as the one from the restaurant. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Can I make this recipe with different types of pasta?
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Absolutely! While elbow and small shell pasta are traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or even bow-tie pasta work well.
Is it possible to make this mac and cheese ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little milk if necessary to restore creaminess.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
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The basic recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure to use cheeses that are free from animal rennet.
Can I freeze this mac and cheese?
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Yes, you can freeze the mac and cheese. However, the texture might change slightly upon reheating, becoming a bit grainier. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How can I add more flavor to this dish?
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Consider adding ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, garlic powder, or even a dash of truffle oil for an upscale touch. Experimenting with different cheeses can also enhance the flavor profile.
