Description
Indulge in the creamy delight of our Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe, a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. This copycat version brings together the rich sharpness of Vermont cheddar and perfectly cooked pasta nestled in a velvety sauce that envelops your senses. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a nostalgic embrace reminiscent of childhood comfort food. Easy to make and customizable, this dish invites you to explore your culinary creativity—whether by adding vegetables or trying different cheese blends. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy moments filled with warmth and laughter over this delightful meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound dry medium shell pasta
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1¼ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 4 cups freshly shredded Vermont Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot; add pasta and cook until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain without rinsing.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until golden brown (2–3 minutes).
- Gradually add whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously until thickened.
- Stir in salt, mustard powder, and black pepper.
- Remove from heat; fold in cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, gently mixing without over-mixing.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg