There is something downright comforting about diving into a creamy, dreamy bowl of mac and cheese—especially when it tastes every bit as luxurious as your Panera Bread favorite. This Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe perfectly captures that signature rich, velvety cheese sauce combined with tender pasta shells. Whether you’re sharing with friends or just treating yourself, one spoonful and you’ll be hooked on those ultra-silky layers of flavor that have made this dish legendary!

Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to make this Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe, but each one is completely essential. From the robust sharpness of white cheddar to the silkiness of heavy cream, every component plays a unique part in creating that indulgent texture and flavor we all crave.

Pasta shells: Their cup-like shape holds onto creamy cheese sauce perfectly—substitute with elbow macaroni or cavatappi if you like!
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and is the foundation for your roux, which thickens your sauce like magic.
All-purpose flour: Paired with butter, this ensures your sauce is luxuriously smooth and never grainy.
Whole milk: Brings a mellow creaminess and keeps the base light without sacrificing body.
Heavy cream: This is what takes the sauce straight to restaurant-quality lusciousness.
Dijon mustard: Trust me, this tiny bit brightens all the flavors and adds a subtle zing.
Salt: Essential for bringing out every cheesy nuance—don’t skip it!
White pepper: Offers gentle heat and blends seamlessly into the sauce without any black flecks.
White cheddar cheese (shredded): The star of the show—choose a high-quality block and shred it yourself for the smoothest melt.
Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds nutty depth and a gorgeous final glossy texture.

How to Make Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Get started by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until they’re just al dente—they’ll continue to soften slightly when stirred into the cheese sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside so it’s ready when your sauce is velvety and warm.

Step 2: Start the Roux

This is where the magic begins! In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. When it starts to foam, whisk in the all-purpose flour. Stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and just barely golden—this base is what makes your Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe ultra-smooth and never lumpy.

Step 3: Whisk in the Milk and Cream

With the roux bubbling away, pour in the whole milk and heavy cream in a slow, steady stream, whisking both at the same time. Keep stirring gently to ensure a lump-free, shiny sauce. Let it heat until it starts to simmer and thickens slightly, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Seasoning

Stir in your Dijon mustard, salt, and white pepper. The Dijon is the secret ingredient that wakes up the cheese sauce without overpowering, while the seasoning brings out every note of flavor. Give it a taste and adjust as needed—you want a balanced foundation before the cheese goes in.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses

Now for the good part! Reduce your heat to low and, working in handfuls, slowly add the shredded white cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir between each addition to ensure the cheese melts seamlessly and your sauce stays glossy and creamy. Your kitchen should smell out-of-this-world at this point!

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Gently add the drained pasta shells into the glorious cheese sauce. Use a spatula or large spoon to stir and coat every nook and cranny. Let the Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe cook together for 2 to 3 more minutes, just until everything is piping hot and irresistibly creamy. Serve warm and marvel at how close you are to a Panera classic—right at home!

How to Serve Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

For that restaurant-worthy finish, try sprinkling an extra shower of freshly grated Parmesan or a dash of chopped fresh parsley. You could also add a pinch of white pepper or a drizzle of truffle oil if you’re feeling extra fancy. These little touches not only make your Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe pop visually, but elevate every bite.

Side Dishes

This mac and cheese shines as a main course or as a luxe side. Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlicky roasted broccoli, or even tangy pickles for a little acidic brightness—it balances the richness beautifully. It’s also amazing next to barbecue chicken or veggie burgers when you need a plate full of comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to make your Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe extra memorable? Try serving it in small ramekins for individual portions, or pile it high in a crispy bread bowl for a nod to quirky café fare. You can even top it with toasted breadcrumbs or crispy bacon bits for added texture, or stir in peas, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted tomatoes for an unexpected twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra, you’re in luck—this dish reheats beautifully! Let the mac and cheese cool, then transfer to an airtight container. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Give it a quick stir before reheating to revive its super-creamy texture.

Freezing

Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe actually freezes quite well. Place fully cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating. Just remember, fresh cheese sauce always tastes a little smoother than frozen, so enjoy sooner rather than later if you can!

Reheating

To bring your Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe back to its silky best, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual portions at 50 percent power in short bursts, stirring in between until hot and creamy again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While white cheddar is key for that classic Panera flavor, feel free to get creative—try a blend with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different twist, but always use blocks and shred the cheese yourself for the best melt.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You bet—just substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Be sure your other ingredients (like Dijon mustard) are certified gluten-free as well.

How do I keep the sauce from getting grainy?

For silky smooth results, always melt the cheese in slowly over low heat and avoid using pre-shredded cheese. These small steps help create a sauce as perfect as the original Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe.

Why use white pepper instead of black?

White pepper adds gentle heat but blends seamlessly into the cheese sauce, keeping your mac and cheese free from specks and maintaining that pure, milky look.

Can I bake this mac and cheese?

This recipe is designed for a stovetop finish, but if you love a baked, bubbly top, simply pour the prepared mac and cheese into a casserole dish, sprinkle with extra cheese or buttery breadcrumbs, and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until golden and bubbling.

Final Thoughts

If you love the comfort of a rich, creamy classic mac and cheese with a sophisticated twist, this Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe might quickly become your new kitchen favorite. Dive in and enjoy every gooey, cheesy bite—you’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe too)!

Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 21 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this Panera Mac and Cheese recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner, this dish will satisfy your comfort food cravings with its velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta shells.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

1 pound pasta shells

Cheese Sauce:

1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
2 1/2 cups white cheddar cheese (shredded)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux. Gradually add milk and cream, stirring until thickened. Season with mustard, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and stir in cheeses until melted.
Combine and Serve: Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently. Heat through for a few minutes. Serve warm.