Name: Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound small cut pasta (shells recommended); 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup American cheese, shredded or chopped; 2 teaspoons dry mustard; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe·4 from 8 reviews

If you’ve ever found yourself craving the rich, cheesy comfort of Panera’s classic mac and cheese but wished you could make it at home, you’re in for a treat. This Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe brings that signature creamy, dreamy goodness straight to your kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. It’s everything you love about Panera’s beloved dish — velvety cheese sauce, perfectly tender pasta, and a luscious blend of flavors — all without the restaurant wait. Ready to dive into a cuddle-in-a-bowl experience? Let’s get started!

Ingredients You'll Need

A white bowl is full of small shell pasta coated in a creamy, smooth, pale yellow cheese sauce. The pasta shells have a glossy, soft texture, and the cheese sauce clings to each shell, covering them evenly. A light sprinkling of black pepper is scattered on top, creating small dark dots that contrast against the pale cheese. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with part of a red and white patterned cloth underneath, and a blurred fork is visible to the side. The lighting is soft and natural, highlighting the creamy texture of the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are delightfully basic, yet each one plays a crucial role in crafting the ultimate creamy texture, deep cheesy flavor, and perfect consistency that make this recipe shine.

1 pound small cut pasta (shells recommended): The shape holds cheese sauce beautifully in every nook and cranny.
¼ cup butter: Provides a rich base for the sauce and helps create that velvety texture.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: The thickening agent that makes the cheese sauce luxuriously smooth.
2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and ensures the sauce isn’t too heavy or thin.
1 cup heavy cream: Boosts the richness and decadence of the cheese sauce.
1 cup white cheddar cheese: Sharp and tangy, it’s the star flavor that captures Panera’s signature taste.
1 cup American cheese: Melts perfectly and adds that classic melty cheese creaminess.
2 teaspoons dry mustard: A secret flavor enhancer that deepens the cheesiness without overpowering.
2 teaspoons salt: Balances all the flavors and highlights the cheese.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to finish off the seasoning nicely.

How to Make Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package directions, until just tender. Choosing small shells is key—they scoop up that luscious cheese sauce so well. Once cooked, drain but hold onto the pasta while we craft the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Roux Base

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 2 to 3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This step is essential; it ensures your sauce thickens smoothly and without lumps while gaining a subtle nutty flavor.

Step 3: Whisk in Milk and Cream

Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking consistently to combine everything into a silky mixture. Keep stirring until the sauce starts to thicken and coats the back of a spoon; that’s your cue you’re ready for the cheese magic.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and add the white cheddar and American cheese a little at a time, stirring gently until each addition is fully melted and incorporated. Then, season the sauce with dry mustard, salt, and black pepper. This combination creates the iconic depth and warmth reminiscent of Panera’s mac and cheese.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, fold the drained pasta into the cheese sauce, mixing thoroughly so every piece is generously coated. Your Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe is now ready to serve piping hot - creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting.

How to Serve Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe

A bowl of small shell pasta is covered in creamy cheese sauce that has a smooth, shiny texture. The pasta shells look soft and are pale yellow, coated evenly by the sauce. There are small black pepper specks sprinkled on top, adding contrast. The dish is served in a white bowl with handles, placed on a white marbled surface with a red cloth that has white polka dots underneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While it’s delicious plain, small garnishes add a fresh, flavorful pop. Try sprinkling crispy breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, or even a pinch of smoked paprika on top to add texture and a light brightness that balances the richness.

Side Dishes

This mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with tangy coleslaw, a crisp green salad, or roasted veggies like broccoli or Brussels sprouts. These sides add color and freshness, making your meal feel perfectly rounded and indulgent without being heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your serving style by baking the mac and cheese in individual ramekins topped with more cheese and breadcrumbs for a golden crust, or use it as a filling in stuffed peppers or baked potatoes. It’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that always wows.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making your second serving just as delicious as the first.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy again, then gently reheat.

Reheating

Warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to revive that silky sauce texture. If microwaving, heat in short bursts stirring frequently to keep it creamy and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While small shells are perfect for holding the sauce, elbows, cavatappi, or other tubular pasta also work great for this Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy-free butters and milk alternatives, and use vegan cheeses designed for melting. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be slightly different but still tasty!

Why do we use two types of cheese?

The white cheddar adds sharpness, while the American cheese provides that ultra-smooth, creamy melt that defines the classic Panera mac and cheese taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the pasta ahead, then combine and heat just before serving to save time on busy days.

How can I make the mac and cheese thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply reduce the amount of milk slightly or cook the sauce a bit longer after adding the dairy before incorporating the cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe truly captures that warm, gooey comfort you crave, all from your own kitchen. It’s a perfect dish for cozy nights, gatherings, or anytime you want to indulge in a little cheesy joy. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly this beloved restaurant classic becomes a homemade favorite that everyone asks for again and again.