- Cook pasta following package instructions.
- Melt butter in a big pot over low heat. Mix in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring.
- Slowly add milk, stir until thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat.
- Add cheeses, mustard, salt, and hot sauce. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth..
- Mix in pasta and cook over medium heat for 1 minute (or until heated through).
- Serve right away.
How to serve this Panera Mac and Cheese
Here are some easy tips for serving this mac and cheese:
- As a main dish: This mac and cheese is hearty and filling, perfect for a main meal. Serve it alongside a side salad or roasted vegetables.
- As a side dish: This recipe also works well as a side for holiday dinners or barbecues. Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or pot roast.
- In a grilled cheese sandwich: Try this mac and cheese in a grilled cheese sandwich. Spread it on bread slices and grill until golden brown and melty.
- In a baked potato: Load up a baked potato with this mac and cheese and bake until it's gooey and delicious.
How to store Panera Mac and Cheese
SERVE: It's tastiest when served right after making it. You can leave it out for about an hour before needing to refrigerate.
STORE: Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
FREEZE: Due to the dairy, it's not good for freezing. The cheese sauce won't be smooth after thawing.
REHEAT: Put the Panera Mac and Cheese in a saucepan on medium-low heat. Add 3-4 tablespoons of milk and stir until heated through, about 3-6 minutes.
Nutrition Facts of Panera Mac and Cheese
If you're curious about the calorie, sugar, fat, or protein content of Panera Mac and Cheese, you can find the company's official nutritional facts for the dish below.
Panera Mac and Cheese
FINAL THOUGHTS
Now you can easily make your own Panera Mac And Cheese whenever you want. This recipe is quick, taking just about an hour or less, depending on how long your pasta takes to cook.
And that's all there is to it! Making Panera Mac and Cheese at home is simple with this easy recipe. You can even try adding different flavors if you like.
Whether you stick to the recipe or try something new, you'll end up with a tasty and satisfying meal to enjoy!
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Frequently Ask Questions
What type of cheese is best for Mac and Cheese?
For the yummiest mac and cheese, it's best to use cheese that isn't pre-shredded because it can have extra additives that prevent the cheese from sticking together. For this recipe, it's ideal to use extra-sharp white cheddar and white American cheese from the deli.
Is hot sauce necessary for this recipe?
Yes, I think so. It's only there to make the dish taste even better. It's such a small amount that it won't make the dish spicy.
How long does it take to cook the sauce until it thickens?
The sauce typically thickens in a few minutes, usually about 3-6 minutes, over medium-low heat.
Can the Panera Mac and Cheese be stored for later consumption?
Indeed, any remaining portions of the dish can be safely stored in an airtight container within the refrigerator for a duration of 3 to 4 days. This ensures that the flavors remain intact and the dish stays fresh for subsequent servings. Just remember to properly seal the container to maintain its quality until you're ready to enjoy it again!
Can the Panera Mac and Cheese recipe be doubled or halved?
This recipe is quite versatile and can be conveniently tailored to accommodate different serving sizes. Whether you need to make a larger batch to feed a crowd or scale it down for a more intimate gathering, simply adjust the quantities of ingredients accordingly. Doubling or halving the recipe is straightforward and allows you to effortlessly adapt to your specific needs. So feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences and the number of servings you require!
