Description
Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that brings restaurant-quality flavors straight to your kitchen. This creamy, cheesy dish features perfectly cooked elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack. It’s an indulgent meal that’s perfect for cozy nights or gathering with friends and family. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour for about 2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until thickened.
- Stir in cheeses until melted; adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Season with mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg