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Panera-Style Mac and Cheese

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Deliciously creamy and cheesy homemade version of Panera Bread’s famous mac and cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni: Boil a large pot of water, add macaroni, and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, add flour, and stir for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add milk and cream: Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until the sauce thickens and bubbles lightly.
  4. Mix in cheese: Reduce heat and add cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until melted and smooth.
  5. Combine pasta and sauce: Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until fully coated.
  6. Serve warm: Garnish with extra cheese or paprika if desired.

Notes

To store leftovers, cool down before placing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for 3-5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy pasta, comfort food, homemade mac and cheese

Find it online: https://dishfoody.com/panera-mac-and-cheese-recipe-best-copycat/