White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This creamy macaroni and cheese recipe offers a rich, homemade cheese sauce made with just six simple ingredients. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy cravings and bring smiles to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes of total cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
• Creamy Goodness: The blend of white cheddar creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats each piece of pasta.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a side dish paired with your favorite protein.
• Six Simple Ingredients: You can whip up this delightful meal without needing an extensive pantry.
• Kid-Friendly: Children love its cheesy flavor, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat), you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large deep skillet
• Whisk
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta, allowing enough space for even cooking.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the cheese sauce smoothly, preventing lumps in your creamy base.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Convenient for heating half & half quickly without fuss.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces pipettes (or other pipe or small pasta)

For the Cheese Sauce

• 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups half & half
• 10 ounces white cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 3/4 teaspoon salt

How to Make White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta according to box directions for al dente. Drain the pasta once it’s cooked to perfection.

Step 2: Heat the Half & Half

Meanwhile, heat half & half in a microwave-safe bowl until hot but not boiling. Stir as needed, or you can also heat it in a small saucepan over low heat.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large pot or large deep skillet over low heat, melt butter. Add flour and cook for about 2 minutes while whisking constantly. Slowly add warm half & half to the pan while continuing to whisk, smoothing out any lumps. Cook another minute or two until thickened and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Cheese and Salt

Turn off the heat from the sauce and mix in shredded cheese along with salt until completely smooth.

Step 5: Mix in Pasta

Stir in the drained cooked pasta. Mix well for a minute or two to allow the pasta to soak up some of that delicious sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade White Cheddar Mac and Cheese!

How to Serve White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) is a deliciously creamy dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it classic or add some fun twists, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in a warm bowl, topped with extra shredded white cheddar for that gooey texture.

Garnish with Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Add Crunch

• Top with breadcrumbs mixed with butter and bake for a crispy finish.

Pair with Proteins

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.

Make it a Bake

• Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake until golden brown.

How to Perfect White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

Creating the perfect White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) involves a few simple tips. Follow these guidelines to achieve creamy, cheesy goodness every time.

• Use Quality Cheese: High-quality white cheddar melts better and adds more flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook pasta just until al dente; this prevents mushiness when mixed with the sauce.
• Warm Ingredients: Heating the half & half before adding it helps achieve a smoother sauce.
• Whisk Constantly: When combining ingredients on the stove, whisking ensures a lump-free sauce.
• Let It Rest: Allow the mac and cheese to sit for a minute after mixing. This helps the pasta absorb more sauce.

Best Side Dishes for White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture complements the creaminess of the mac and cheese perfectly.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green option that adds color and nutrients, balancing out the richness.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges add depth of flavor to your meal.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw brightens up each bite of cheesy goodness.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus offers a subtle earthy taste that pairs well with cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Using cold ingredients – Starting with cold half & half or cheese can lead to clumps. Always warm your half & half first for a smooth sauce.
• Not whisking enough – Failing to whisk the butter and flour can result in lumps. Continuously whisk until the mixture is completely smooth.
• Overcooking the pasta – Cooking pasta beyond al dente will make it mushy in the final dish. Follow package instructions carefully for perfect texture.
• Skipping the seasoning – Forgetting salt can leave your dish bland. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Not serving immediately – Letting mac and cheese sit too long can cause it to thicken excessively. Serve right away for the creamiest experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place mac and cheese in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop – Heat over low heat in a saucepan, adding a splash of milk or half & half as needed to revive creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) so special?

This recipe offers an easy way to recreate the creamy, cheesy delight found at Panera with just six ingredients. It’s rich in flavor while being simple to prepare.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While white cheddar is recommended for its creamy texture, you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a unique twist.

How do I customize my White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)?

You can add cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach, crispy bacon, or even spices like cayenne pepper for an extra kick. The options are endless!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) is not only comforting but incredibly versatile. With just six ingredients, you can whip up this delightful dish quickly. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins, making it a perfect choice for any family meal or cozy dinner night at home.