Panera Mac and Cheese
This recipe makes a creamy and cheesy macaroni that closely resembles the famous Panera dish.
Equipment
- large pot
- Whisk
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound dry medium shell pasta or any short pasta will work
Cheese Sauce
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (¾ stick)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk room temperature
- 1 cup heavy cream room temperature
- 1¼ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 cups freshly shredded Vermont Cheddar cheese You can use any brand
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add salt, mustard powder, and black pepper. Stir in the cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat.
Notes
You can add breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture if desired.