Creamy Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

Name: Creamy Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Creamy homemade Mac and Cheese inspired by Panera's recipe.

By :

Eva

August 25, 2026

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How to make Creamy Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

1 lb elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Directions:

Cook the Macaroni: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will help remove the raw flour taste.
Add the Dairy: Gradually add the whole milk and heavy cream to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Keep cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Season the Sauce: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Add the Cheese: Lower the heat and gradually add both the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until all the pasta is coated evenly.
Serve: Serve the mac and cheese warm. Enjoy your homemade creamy copycat Panera mac and cheese!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese

This creamy copycat Panera mac and cheese recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make at home. You’ll love it for several reasons:

Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and whole milk gives it a rich, smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
Cheesy Goodness: With two types of cheese, this recipe delivers a bold flavor that truly satisfies cheese lovers.
Comfort Food: Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food, perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Easy to Customize: You can easily add your favorite ingredients, such as bacon, broccoli, or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Nutriments benefits

Mac and cheese can be indulgent, but it does offer some nutritional benefits when made at home:

Calcium: The cheese in this recipe is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Protein: The combination of cheese and macaroni provides a decent amount of protein, which is important for muscle repair and growth.
Carbohydrates: The elbow macaroni provides carbohydrates, giving you energy for your day.

However, remember that this dish can be high in calories and saturated fats, so enjoy it in moderation.

What to Serve With Creamy Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese

Salads: Pair your mac and cheese with a fresh green salad. The crunch and freshness of the salad provide a nice contrast to the creaminess of the pasta.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Toasted grilled cheese sandwiches make a fun and nostalgic combination with mac and cheese.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts are excellent side dishes that add flavor and nutrition to your meal.
Chicken Tenders: For a heartier dinner, serve the mac and cheese alongside crispy chicken tenders.

How to store Creamy Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese

Storing leftover mac and cheese is easy:

In the Refrigerator: Let the mac and cheese cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
In the Freezer: You can freeze mac and cheese for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the oven.

Tips and mistakes to avoid

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta. It will continue to cook in the cheese sauce, and overcooking will result in mushy mac and cheese.
Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties. Avoid using cheese that contains anti-caking agents.
Whisk Continuously: When making the sauce, whisk constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
Avoid Rapid Temperature Changes: When reheating, do it slowly over low heat. Reheating too quickly can cause the cheese to separate.

Variation

Baked Mac and Cheese: For a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Top with additional cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon for added protein and flavor.
Vegetarian Options: Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as gouda, Gruyère, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.

2. Is mac and cheese gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free elbow macaroni and gluten-free flour in the roux.

3. Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Just store them separately, combine when ready to serve, and reheat on the stove.

4. How long does it take to make?

This creamy copycat Panera mac and cheese recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious meal option.

5. Can I add spices for more flavor?

Absolutely! Adding spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce can enhance the flavor and give your mac and cheese a delightful kick.