White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) is the ultimate comfort food that brings the rich, creamy flavors of your favorite café right into your kitchen. With just six simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy gatherings, or a satisfying lunch. The homemade cheese sauce is smooth and luxurious, making every bite a treat. Enjoy this delightful recipe that captures the essence of Panera’s iconic mac and cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy and Delicious: The homemade cheese sauce made with white cheddar offers a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a standalone meal, side dish, or even a base for adding proteins or veggies.
• Kid-Friendly: Children will love the cheesy goodness, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
• Minimal Ingredients: With just six ingredients, you can whip up this dish without complicated shopping lists.

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Tools and Preparation

To create the best White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat), you’ll need some essential tools. These make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Deep skillet
• Whisk
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Crucial for boiling pasta efficiently.
• Deep skillet: Ideal for preparing the creamy cheese sauce without spills.
• Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly and prevent lumps in the sauce.

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

1. Cook pasta according to box directions for al dente.

Step 2: Heat Half & Half

1. Meanwhile, heat half & half in a microwave-safe bowl until hot but not boiling, stirring as needed. (Alternatively, heat in a small saucepan.)

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large pot or deep skillet over low heat, melt butter.
2. Add flour and cook for about 2 minutes while whisking continuously.
3. Slowly add warm half & half to the mixture while whisking constantly to smooth out any lumps.
4. Continue cooking for another minute or two until thick and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Cheese and Pasta

1. Turn off heat from sauce.
2. Mix in shredded cheese and salt until completely smooth.
3. Stir in drained cooked pasta.
4. Stir for one to two minutes to allow pasta to soak up some of the sauce.

Serve immediately for a delightful dining experience!

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

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience. Serving it the right way can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some creative ideas for serving this creamy delight.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and a healthy crunch.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts complement the creamy texture beautifully.

Add Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken on top makes the dish heartier.
• Bacon Crumbles: Crispy bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor that enhances the cheese.

Garnish Creatively

• Chopped Chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a burst of color and mild onion flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: A dusting of parmesan gives an extra cheesy kick.

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

Perfecting your White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Cheese: Shredded cheese from a block melts better than pre-grated options, ensuring a smooth sauce.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This helps prevent mushy pasta, allowing it to hold its shape when mixed with the cheese sauce.
• Warm Half & Half: Heating half & half before adding it to the roux helps create a smoother sauce without lumps.
• Whisk Constantly: While adding liquids, whisk continuously to prevent any lumps from forming in your cheese sauce.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the mac and cheese to sit for a few minutes after mixing lets flavors meld together beautifully.

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

Pairing side dishes with your White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great suggestions to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of mac and cheese.
2. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into creamy cheese sauce.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances out the rich flavors while adding crunch.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds a fun, seasonal touch that complements cheesy pasta well.
5. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and zesty dressing add brightness alongside your comforting dish.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings earthy notes that pair well with creamy textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold half & half – Always heat your half & half before adding it to the cheese sauce. Cold ingredients can cause the cheese to seize up and result in a lumpy sauce.
• Overcooking the pasta – Cook your pasta just until al dente. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and won’t hold up well in the creamy sauce.
• Not whisking enough – When combining the flour and butter, whisk continuously for a smooth roux. Skipping this step can lead to lumps in your cheese sauce.
• Skipping the salt – Salt enhances flavor. Don’t forget to add it to your cheese sauce and adjust to taste for maximum deliciousness.
• Using pre-shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grate your own cheese for the best texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Adding more half & half or using a combination of different cheeses can enhance creaminess.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, mixing cheeses like mozzarella or gouda with white cheddar works great for added flavor.

What pasta shape works best?

Pipettes are fantastic, but macaroni or any small pasta shapes will work well too.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy texture and cheesy flavor appeal to kids of all ages.

Final Thoughts

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables, proteins, or different spices. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or quick lunches at home. Try it today!