Highlights
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbly.
- While the basic recipe provides a delicious mac and cheese, there are a few extra touches that will elevate it to Panera-level perfection.
- A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine vinegar can add a subtle brightness to the mac and cheese, balancing out the richness of the cheese.
Panera Bread’s mac and cheese is legendary. Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, it’s a dish that can satisfy even the pickiest eaters. But what if you could recreate that same deliciousness in your own kitchen? It’s easier than you think! This blog post will guide you through the process of how to make Panera mac and cheese, allowing you to enjoy this beloved dish whenever the craving strikes.
The Secrets Behind Panera’s Mac & Cheese
Panera’s mac and cheese isn’t just your average cheddar-based concoction. The secret lies in their unique blend of cheeses, the creamy sauce, and the perfect pasta-to-cheese ratio. To replicate this, we’ll be using a combination of sharp cheddar, creamy Monterey Jack, and a touch of Gruyère for that extra nutty flavor.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before we start, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. You’ll need:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Preparing the Mac & Cheese Base
1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère cheeses until melted and smooth.
Assembling and Baking the Mac & Cheese
1. Combine the pasta and cheese sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
2. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Top with bread crumbs: Combine the bread crumbs and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
4. Bake until golden brown: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbly.
The Finishing Touches: Making it Panera-Worthy
While the basic recipe provides a delicious mac and cheese, there are a few extra touches that will elevate it to Panera-level perfection:
- Use high-quality cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère cheeses from a reputable brand. This will make a noticeable difference in the flavor and texture of your mac and cheese.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for a perfect mac and cheese texture. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and ruin the consistency.
- Add a touch of acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine vinegar can add a subtle brightness to the mac and cheese, balancing out the richness of the cheese.
- Experiment with toppings: While bread crumbs are a classic topping, you can also get creative with other options like panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Beyond the Basic Recipe: Variations to Explore
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can start experimenting with different variations. Here are a few ideas:
- Bacon Mac & Cheese: Add crispy bacon bits to the mac and cheese for a smoky, salty flavor.
- Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese: Mix in shredded buffalo chicken and a dollop of ranch dressing for a spicy kick.
- Lobster Mac & Cheese: For a luxurious treat, add chunks of cooked lobster meat to the mac and cheese.
- Broccoli Cheddar Mac & Cheese: Add steamed broccoli florets to the mac and cheese for a healthy and flavorful twist.
The Final Verdict: Your Homemade Panera Mac & Cheese
With a little effort and the right ingredients, you can easily recreate Panera‘s signature mac and cheese in your own kitchen. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, offering a comforting and delicious meal that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
A: While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can experiment with other shapes like cavatappi or rotini. Just make sure the pasta is cooked al dente.
Q: How can I make the mac and cheese extra creamy?
A: You can add a tablespoon or two of heavy cream to the cheese sauce for extra richness.
Q: Can I make the mac and cheese ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the mac and cheese and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Before baking, bring it to room temperature and then bake as directed.
Q: What are some other toppings I can use besides bread crumbs?
A: You can use panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, chopped fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.