Copycat Panera Bread Mac and Cheese: A Comfort Food Sensation
Are you a fan of Panera Bread’s creamy, indulgent mac and cheese? Do you wish you could recreate that restaurant-quality taste at home? Look no further! In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making a copycat version of Panera Bread’s famous mac and cheese that is sure to satisfy your cravings and bring a touch of comfort to your kitchen.
Panera Bread’s mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser, known for its rich and creamy texture, and a blend of flavors that tickle the taste buds. The secret to a perfect copycat recipe lies in selecting the right ingredients and following a precise cooking method. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a warm, comforting meal, this copycat Panera Bread mac and cheese is the answer to your prayers.
Ingredients for Copycat Panera Bread Mac and Cheese
To start, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 pound of elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta shape)
– 2 cups of whole milk
– 2 cups of heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of mustard powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
– 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup of shredded Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of melted butter
How to Make Copycat Panera Bread Mac and Cheese
1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until a smooth paste forms. Cook for about 1 minute, then gradually add the milk and heavy cream while constantly whisking to prevent lumps.
3. Season the sauce: Stir in the salt, black pepper, mustard powder, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens and reaches a creamy consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted and smooth. Be patient with this step, as it’s crucial to ensure the cheese is fully incorporated without any lumps.
5. Combine the pasta and sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
6. Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Stir until well mixed.
7. Assemble the mac and cheese: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top.
8. Bake and serve: Bake the mac and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Now that you have your copycat Panera Bread mac and cheese, you can enjoy this delicious comfort food in the comfort of your own home. Share it with family and friends, or keep it all to yourself—either way, you’ll be savoring the taste of a classic dish that’s sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your mealtime.
