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Creamy white cheddar mac and cheese in a bowl with tender pasta and glossy cheese sauce

Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese

This copycat Panera mac and cheese delivers creamy white cheddar sauce and tender pasta in every bite.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 340 g Elbow macaroni
  • 3 tbsp Butter
  • 3 tbsp All-purpose flour
  • 2 cup Whole milk
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream
  • 3 cup White cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper

Method
 

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to package directions until tender, then drain and set aside.
  2. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until smooth and lightly golden.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, then simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  4. Remove from heat, stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and toss gently until every piece is evenly coated.
  6. Serve immediately while hot and creamy for the best restaurant-style texture.