Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe: The Ultimate Copycat Guide
If you’ve ever stepped into Panera Bread, you probably know their mac and cheese has a loyal fan base. It’s rich, creamy, velvety, and bursting with cheesy goodness. Many people say it’s one of the best fast-casual comfort foods out there. But here’s the good news—you don’t have to wait in line at Panera to enjoy this cheesy classic. With the right Panera mac and cheese recipe, you can recreate it right at home, and it tastes just as good—if not better!
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what makes this mac and cheese so irresistible, how to make it step-by-step, expert tips for that signature Panera flavor, and even fun variations you can try. By the end, you’ll be able to whip up your own bowl of Panera-style comfort food whenever the craving hits.
Why Panera Mac and Cheese Is So Popular
There are plenty of mac and cheese recipes out there, but Panera’s version stands out for a few reasons:
- Ultra-creamy sauce – The secret lies in a smooth white cheddar cheese sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta.
- Perfect pasta choice – Panera uses pipette rigate (a small pasta shell similar to cavatappi) that holds the cheese sauce beautifully.
- Comfort food appeal – It’s simple yet indulgent, making it a top choice for kids and adults alike.
- Consistency – Whether you order in-store, drive-thru, or get it to-go, the mac and cheese always tastes the same—rich, cheesy, and comforting.
That combination of creaminess and bold white cheddar flavor is what we’ll be recreating with this recipe.
Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe (Copycat Version)
This homemade Panera mac and cheese recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. You’ll only need about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring Panera’s magic into your kitchen:
- 1 pound pasta (cavatappi or pipette rigate preferred, but elbow macaroni works too)
- 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, but Panera uses a tiny kick for balance)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded (the star ingredient)
- 1/2 cup American cheese (optional, helps with smooth meltiness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Don’t overcook—it will soften more in the cheese sauce.
2. Make the Roux
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for about 1–2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. This mixture (called a roux) will thicken your cheese sauce.
3. Add Milk and Cream
Slowly whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream until smooth. Keep whisking to avoid lumps. Let it simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Season the Base
Stir in Dijon mustard, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Don’t skip the Dijon—it’s Panera’s secret ingredient that gives the sauce depth.
5. Add the Cheese
Lower the heat to medium-low. Gradually stir in shredded white cheddar cheese (and American cheese if using). Stir until completely melted and creamy.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well-coated. Let it sit on low heat for a couple of minutes so the pasta absorbs some of the sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Spoon into bowls and serve immediately. For the full Panera experience, serve with a warm bread bowl or baguette on the side.
Expert Tips for the Best Panera Mac and Cheese
- Use block cheese, not pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Always shred fresh cheese.
- Balance cheddar with American cheese. While white cheddar gives bold flavor, American cheese helps keep the sauce silky.
- Warm milk before adding. This prevents lumps when whisking into the roux.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. Slightly firm pasta will hold up better in the creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately. Mac and cheese tastes best fresh, before the sauce thickens too much.
Variations on Panera Mac and Cheese
One of the great things about making this recipe at home is customizing it to your taste. Here are some fun twists:
- Bacon Panera Mac and Cheese – Add crispy bacon bits for smoky richness.
- Broccoli Cheddar Version – Stir in steamed broccoli florets for a veggie-packed twist.
- Buffalo Mac and Cheese – Add a splash of buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles.
- Truffle Mac and Cheese – Drizzle with a little truffle oil for a gourmet touch.
- Baked Panera Mac and Cheese – Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden.
What to Serve with Panera Mac and Cheese
Panera often serves their mac and cheese as a side dish, but it can be a full meal, too. Here are some serving ideas:
- With a crusty bread bowl or baguette (classic Panera style)
- Alongside a fresh salad (Caesar or Greek pairs beautifully)
- With grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken on top
- As a side to sandwiches like turkey club or BLT
- With steamed vegetables for a balanced plate
How to Store and Reheat
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s so good you might not!), here’s how to store them:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on stove: Add a splash of milk when reheating over low heat to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring and adding milk as needed.
- Freezer: Not recommended, as cheese sauces can separate when thawed.
Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
(Note: Nutrition may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.)
Why This Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe Works
This recipe captures everything people love about Panera’s version:
- Creamy, not clumpy – thanks to a smooth roux and the right cheese blend.
- Flavorful, not bland – the Dijon mustard and white cheddar make all the difference.
- Comforting and filling – exactly what you want from a bowl of mac and cheese.
Best of all, it’s simple to make at home and way more affordable than buying it every time the craving hits.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the perfect Panera mac and cheese recipe, this copycat version is as close as it gets. It’s creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious—everything you want in a comfort food classic. Whether you make it for a quick weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or just to satisfy your Panera cravings, this recipe won’t disappoint.
So grab your pasta, white cheddar, and a little Dijon mustard, and whip up a batch today. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you!
