If you’ve ever walked into a Panera Bread and tasted their creamy, comforting mac and cheese, you know it’s a little piece of heaven in a bowl.
The rich cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and the hint of buttery goodness make it irresistible.
The great news? You don’t need to leave your kitchen to enjoy this comfort food.
This homemade version of Panera Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and hits all the right notes—just like the original. Perfect for weeknight dinners, a cozy lunch, or anytime you’re craving that ultimate cheesy indulgence.
Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe
Panera Mac and Cheese is all about simplicity done right.
It combines tender elbow macaroni with a luscious, velvety cheese sauce made from a mix of cheddar cheeses, butter, milk, and a touch of seasoning.
Unlike boxed versions, this recipe has depth of flavor thanks to real cheese and a hint of mustard to bring out the sharpness.
It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfectly balanced—comfort food elevated to a homemade delight.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later use if needed.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1–2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
Slowly add the warm milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses.
Stir continuously until all the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve
Serve immediately while hot and gooey, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
For a baked version, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and broil for 3–5 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips for the Perfect Panera Mac and Cheese
Creating Panera-level mac and cheese at home is easy when you follow a few pro tips:
- Use real cheese—avoid pre-shredded blends with anti-caking agents for a smoother sauce.
- Warm the milk before adding it to the roux; this prevents lumps.
- For a richer flavor, mix cheeses with different textures and sharpness.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of paprika for subtle depth.
- Avoid overcooking pasta—it should be slightly firm as it will absorb the sauce.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 2 cups | 400 | 14g | 2g | 84g |
| Unsalted butter | 3 tbsp | 300 | 0g | 34g | 0g |
| Whole milk | 2 cups | 300 | 16g | 16g | 24g |
| Cheddar cheese | 2 cups | 800 | 48g | 64g | 4g |
| Gruyère cheese | 1/2 cup | 200 | 12g | 16g | 0g |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup | 110 | 10g | 7g | 1g |
| Total | – | 2110 | 100g | 139g | 113g |
Why Homemade Panera Mac and Cheese Wins
- Control over ingredients – skip preservatives and adjust cheese ratios.
- Customization – add bacon, chicken, or vegetables for a personal twist.
- Fresh and creamy – nothing beats the taste of fresh cheese sauce.
- Perfect comfort food – ideal for family dinners or meal prep.
Variations and Add-Ons
- Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or bacon bits.
- Veggie Upgrade: Add steamed broccoli, peas, or roasted red peppers.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
- Crunchy Top: Sprinkle breadcrumbs and broil for a crispy crust.
Conclusion
Making Panera Mac and Cheese at home is easier than you think, and it tastes just as indulgent as the café version.
With creamy, cheesy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and a few simple tweaks, this recipe brings restaurant-quality comfort food to your kitchen.
Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with add-ons, this homemade mac and cheese is bound to become a family favorite.
So grab a spoon, dig in, and savor every creamy, cheesy bite!