Name: Panera Mac & Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. medium pasta shells or elbow macaroni; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup flour; 3 cups Cracker Barrel Vermont Sharp White Cheddar Cheese, shredded; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups milk, preferably whole; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon mustard powder (or substitute Dijon mustard); 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

Jump to Recipe·4 from 14 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of recreating that unbeatable creamy, dreamy comfort food you get at your favorite café, then this Panera Mac & Cheese Recipe is your golden ticket. Packed with sharp white cheddar cheese and a velvety smooth sauce, this dish captures the essence of everything we love about mac and cheese—warmth, cheesy goodness, and a texture that’s both luscious and satisfyingly rich. Whether you like it straight from the stovetop or baked until bubbly and topped with crispy crumbs, this recipe is a must-try that serves as the perfect cozy meal or the ultimate crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with thick, smooth pale yellow batter that has a creamy texture. On top of the batter, there is a small pile of white grated cheese. A black whisk with metal prongs is partially dipped into the batter on the right side, stirring the cheese into the mixture. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

As with any fantastic dish, great ingredients are the foundation to success. This Panera Mac & Cheese Recipe keeps things simple yet essential, with every component playing a crucial role in delivering richness, depth, and that iconic cheesy flavor. From the sharp white cheddar that brings distinct tang, to the creamy dairy that ensures the perfect sauce consistency, these ingredients combine in harmony to give you that dreamy mac and cheese experience.

1 lb. medium pasta shells or elbow macaroni: These shapes hold sauce perfectly, making every bite ooze with cheesy goodness.
1/4 cup butter: Adds a silky base for the roux and enriches your sauce with a velvety texture.
1/4 cup flour: Creates the thickening agent for a creamy, smooth cheese sauce without any grit.
3 cups Cracker Barrel Vermont Sharp White Cheddar Cheese, shredded: The star of the show, providing that signature sharp and tangy flavor.
1 cup heavy cream: Gives luscious creaminess, making the sauce rich and indulgent.
2 cups milk, preferably whole: Balances the heaviness and keeps the sauce light enough to coat every noodle.
3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors subtly without overpowering the cheese.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a gentle kick and depth, rounding out the seasoning brilliantly.
1 teaspoon mustard powder (or Dijon mustard): Brings a mild tang that cuts through the richness, elevating the cheese flavor.
1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional): For those who love a surprising hint of heat that wakes up the palette.

How to Make Panera Mac & Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Shred the Cheese

First things first: shred your white cheddar cheese and set it aside, ideally letting it come close to room temperature. This helps it melt evenly in the sauce without clumping, ensuring every spoonful is delectably smooth.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until perfectly al dente. Drain it well; any excess water can thin out your luscious cheese sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Roux

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour continuously for about one minute until it lightly turns golden. This classic roux is the secret to thickening your cheese sauce beautifully without lumps.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and milk to the roux, stirring constantly for about three minutes until smooth and starting to thicken. Add salt, pepper, mustard powder (or Dijon), and if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of hot sauce. Reduce the heat to low before gradually adding the shredded cheddar, stirring continuously until the sauce is silky and thick with no cheese lumps.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Stir the drained pasta gently into your luxurious cheese sauce, ensuring every shell or macaroni is coated with the creamy mixture. At this point, the Panera Mac & Cheese Recipe is ready to serve as is, boasting that classic heavenly texture.

Step 6: Optional Baking

If you prefer a baked finish, use slightly less pasta (3/4 lb.) as it will absorb sauce during baking. Boil the pasta for a minute less than al dente, then transfer everything to a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Optional: sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers on top for a buttery crunchy crust. Bake at 325 degrees for 15 minutes, then let it rest for 5 minutes to set before serving.

How to Serve Panera Mac & Cheese Recipe

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, showing small shell pasta pieces covered in a smooth, thick yellow cheese sauce. The bowl is placed on a white plate, which sits on a white marbled surface. To the right of the plate, there is a fork with a black handle and a woman's hand holding the handle gently. A blue and white striped cloth is partially visible in the top right corner. The colors are soft and warm, highlighting the creamy texture of the macaroni and cheese. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your dish with simple yet flavorful garnishes like crispy crumbled bacon, fresh chopped parsley for a pop of green, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky edge. These touches transform the mac and cheese from comforting to gourmet.

Side Dishes

This mac and cheese pairs fantastically with crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or even a tangy coleslaw to offset its richness. Blue cheese-stuffed dates or a light, vinegary cucumber salad also make delightful companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the mac and cheese in cute individual ramekins and top with crunchy crumbs for a charming dinner party dish. For a casual twist, spoon it into bread bowls or stuff it inside grilled cheese sandwiches for a luxurious handheld treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Panera Mac & Cheese Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to prevent condensation from making it watery.

Freezing

You can freeze the mac and cheese, too! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in the Panera Mac & Cheese Recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp white cheddar is the classic choice, mixing in cheeses like Gruyere, fontina, or even a bit of Monterey Jack can add complex flavors and extra creaminess. Just be mindful of melting qualities.

Is it better to bake or serve this mac and cheese on the stovetop?

Both ways are delicious! Serving it straight from the stove gives you an ultra-creamy and smooth texture, while baking adds a lovely crunchy top and a thicker casserole feel. Choose depending on your mood or occasion.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the regular flour for a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend in the roux. Also, ensure your pasta is gluten-free for the best results.

What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

Medium pasta shells or elbow macaroni are ideal because they hold onto the sauce so well. You can experiment with cavatappi or small rotini for a fun twist, but those classic shapes deliver that perfect bite.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Increase the hot sauce slightly or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. Topping with jalapeños or mixing in diced chorizo also kicks up the heat while complementing the cheesy rich flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a heartwarming, indulgent dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Panera Mac & Cheese Recipe is an absolute must to try. It hits all the right notes of cheesy comfort with an effortlessly smooth texture and a flavor profile that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Whip it up for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want a little bit of cheesy magic on your plate. Trust me, once you taste this, your mac and cheese game will never be the same!