Are you a fan of Panera Bread’s creamy and comforting macaroni and cheese? Do you wish you could recreate that delicious dish at home? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing the Panera macaroni and cheese recipe that will have you feeling like you’re dining in one of their cozy cafes. Get ready to indulge in a creamy, rich, and mouthwatering dish that will become a family favorite.
When it comes to comfort food, macaroni and cheese is a classic that never goes out of style. Panera Bread’s version is no exception, with its creamy sauce and tender noodles that are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner or a cozy lunch, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds and bring a touch of Panera to your kitchen.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the key ingredients that make Panera’s macaroni and cheese so special. The dish is known for its rich and creamy sauce, which is achieved by combining a combination of milk, heavy cream, and a blend of cheeses. The cheese itself is a mix of sharp cheddar, mild cheddar, and Parmesan, which adds a delightful tanginess to the dish. To top it all off, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs provides a crispy and satisfying crunch.
Now that we’ve got the background out of the way, let’s get to the recipe. Follow these simple steps to create your own Panera-inspired macaroni and cheese at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until a roux forms, about 2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue to whisk the mixture over medium heat until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni and the cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the top is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
And there you have it! Your very own Panera macaroni and cheese recipe that you can enjoy any time you want. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish will undoubtedly impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!
