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Delish Panera Mac & Cheese

Delish Panera Mac & Cheese

This creamy and cheesy Panera-style mac & cheese is the perfect comfort food, made with a rich cheese sauce and tender elbow macaroni.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups whole milk warmed
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup gruyere cheese shredded
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.75 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden, stirring constantly.
  • Gradually whisk in warmed milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk until mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and add mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in shredded cheddar and gruyere cheeses until melted and smooth.
  • Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra richness, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Leftovers reheat well in the oven.