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Panera Mac and Cheese

Panera Mac and Cheese
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Our Panera Mac and Cheese recipe delivers rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort food in under 30 minutes. Combining tender elbow macaroni with a velvety blend of sharp cheddar and gruyere cheeses, enhanced by Dijon mustard and a smooth roux-based sauce, this dish is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings. With customizable variations and easy preparation, it brings homemade quality and heartwarming flavors to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 cup gruyere cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings and Variations

  • Panko breadcrumbs (for crispy topping)
  • Cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (for a spicy kick)
  • Cooked shredded chicken, crispy bacon, or sautéed mushrooms (for protein boost)
  • Gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour blend (for gluten-free version)
  • Vegan margarine, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese (for vegan adaptation)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente, about 6 to 7 minutes. Drain and set aside. The pasta should be tender but firm to hold the sauce well.
  2. Make the Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly until a smooth paste forms and it bubbles slightly without browning. This creates the base for your smooth sauce.
  3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, a little at a time, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. Reduce heat to low and stir in sharp cheddar, gruyere, and Dijon mustard until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently stir to coat all the pasta evenly with the luscious cheese sauce.
  5. Serve or Bake: Serve immediately for creamy comfort, or transfer to a baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes to create a golden, crispy crust.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the creamiest sauce; pre-shredded cheese contains additives that can affect melting.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; slightly undercooked macaroni holds sauce better without becoming mushy.
  • Add milk gradually when making the roux to avoid lumps and ensure a silky-smooth sauce.
  • Keep the sauce on low heat when adding cheese to prevent separating.
  • Customize the cheese blend by adding mozzarella or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://deliceflash.com/panera-mac-and-cheese/