How to make paneraʼs mac and cheese?

How to Make Panera’s Mac and Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide

Panera’s mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food that has captured the hearts of many. The creamy, cheesy, and indulgent dish is a staple on the Panera menu, and for good reason. But what makes it so special? And more importantly, how can you recreate it at home? In this article, we’ll break down the secrets to making Panera’s mac and cheese, and provide you with a step-by-step guide to making this comforting dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Understanding the Recipe

Before we dive into the recipe, it’s essential to understand the key components that make Panera’s mac and cheese so unique. Here are the key ingredients and techniques that set it apart:

• Gruyère and Cheddar Cheese: Panera’s mac and cheese features a blend of Gruyère and Cheddar cheese, which provides a rich, creamy, and slightly sweet flavor profile.
• Béchamel Sauce: The dish is built on a classic Béchamel sauce, made with butter, flour, and milk. This sauce provides a creamy and velvety texture.
• Pasta: Panera uses a specific type of pasta, called cavatappi, which has a fun and playful shape. You can substitute this with other types of pasta, such as macaroni or shells.
• Cream and Butter: Panera’s mac and cheese is rich and indulgent, thanks to the generous use of cream and butter.

The Recipe

Now that we’ve covered the key ingredients and techniques, let’s move on to the recipe. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Panera’s mac and cheese:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
• Cooking Method: Boil, then drain
• Pasta: Cavatappi or other pasta of your choice

Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce

• Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
  3. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is lightly golden.
  4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Béchamel Sauce

• Instructions:

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the Béchamel sauce and stir until well combined.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

• Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese, grated

• Instructions:

  1. Add the Gruyère and Cheddar cheese to the pasta and sauce mixture.
  2. Stir until the cheese is melted and well combined.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Butter

• Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• Instructions:

  1. Add the heavy cream and butter to the pasta and cheese mixture.
  2. Stir until the cream and butter are fully incorporated.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Tips:

  • Serve the mac and cheese hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives.
  • Consider adding some crispy breadcrumbs or croutons on top for added texture.

Tips and Variations

Here are some additional tips and variations to help you customize your Panera-style mac and cheese:

• Add some spice: Consider adding some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give your mac and cheese a spicy kick.
• Get creative with the cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Parmesan, Provolone, or even goat cheese.
• Add some protein: Consider adding some cooked bacon, ham, or chicken to make the dish more substantial.
• Make it a casserole: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake in the oven until golden brown and bubbly.

Conclusion

Making Panera’s mac and cheese at home is easier than you think. By following these simple steps and using the right ingredients, you can create a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the comforting goodness of Panera’s mac and cheese in the comfort of your own kitchen.