White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) is a comforting dish that brings the flavors of your favorite café right into your kitchen. This recipe combines creamy white cheddar cheese with tender pasta, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for family dinners, lunch gatherings, or a cozy night in. With just six simple ingredients, you’ll discover how easy it is to whip up this indulgent dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Simple ingredients: You only need six basic items to create this rich and creamy mac and cheese.
• Creamy texture: The combination of half & half and white cheddar results in a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to each piece of pasta.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it’s great for any occasion.
• Family favorite: This recipe is sure to please picky eaters and cheese lovers alike!

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Tools and Preparation

To make White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat), having the right tools can make all the difference in efficiency and ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta evenly and efficiently.
• Whisk: Helps to create a smooth cheese sauce without lumps by mixing thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

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

For the 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. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Half & Half

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

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large pot or large deep skillet over low heat, melt butter.
2. Add flour to the melted butter, cooking for about 2 minutes while whisking constantly.
3. Slowly add warm half & half to the pan while whisking continuously until smooth.
4. Cook another minute or two until thickened.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

1. Turn off the heat from the sauce.
2. Mix in shredded cheese and salt, stirring until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Stir in drained cooked pasta.
2. Allow it to soak up some of the sauce for about one to two minutes before serving immediately.

Now you have a delicious batch of White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) ready to enjoy!

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

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) is a rich and creamy dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or as a side, there are plenty of creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Family-style Serving

• Serve the mac and cheese in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves, making it perfect for family dinners.

Individual Bowls

• Portion out servings into individual bowls for a more elegant presentation, ideal for gatherings or special occasions.

Topped with Extras

• Add toppings like crispy bacon bits or breadcrumbs for extra texture and flavor. This adds a delightful crunch to every bite.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives to add color and freshness. This simple touch elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise.

As a Gratin

• Transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil briefly until golden brown. This creates a deliciously crispy top layer.

Pairing with Proteins

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. The protein balances the richness of the mac and cheese perfectly.

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

Creating the perfect White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) takes just a few tips to ensure it’s creamy, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious.

• Choose Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality white cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.

• Use Half & Half: For that creamy texture, stick with half & half instead of milk. It gives your sauce richness without being overly heavy.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the pasta just right—al dente helps it hold up against the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.

• Whisk Constantly: When adding half & half, whisk continuously to avoid lumps in your sauce. This ensures a smooth and velvety consistency.

• Let It Rest: Allow the finished dish to sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps thicken the sauce further as it cools slightly.

• Experiment with Spices: Add pinch of cayenne pepper or garlic powder during cooking for added depth of flavor. These little tweaks can elevate your dish significantly.

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

To complement your White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat), consider these side dishes that balance its richness while adding variety to your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, garlic bread pairs wonderfully with mac and cheese, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.

2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides freshness that contrasts nicely with the creamy mac and cheese, making it a classic pairing.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors; plus, it’s easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers in olive oil and roast them until tender; they add sweetness and earthiness.

5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can cut through the creaminess of mac and cheese while adding crunch—try using apple cider vinegar for brightness!

6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is perfect for summer meals; grilling enhances its natural sweetness while adding smoky flavors that complement cheesy dishes.

7. Baked Beans: The slight sweetness of baked beans contrasts beautifully with savory mac and cheese; they’re hearty enough to make your meal feel complete.

8. Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup is comforting alongside mac and cheese; dip your cheesy pasta right into it for an indulgent treat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat), avoid these common mistakes:

• Using cold ingredients: Always heat your half & half before adding it to the sauce. This prevents lumps and ensures a creamy texture.
• Not whisking enough: When combining the flour and butter, whisk continuously to avoid clumps. A smooth mixture is key to a great cheese sauce.
• Overcooking pasta: Follow the package directions and cook your pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the sauce.
• Skipping the salt: Don’t forget to add salt! It enhances the flavor of the cheese sauce and brings out the best taste in your dish.
• Adding cheese too quickly: Allow your sauce to cool slightly before adding shredded cheese. This helps prevent separating and clumping.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing.

Reheating White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway until hot. Add a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a little half & half if needed for creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat):

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

Adding more half & half or using a combination of cheeses can enhance creaminess. Try mixing in some cream cheese for extra richness.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While white cheddar is ideal, you can mix it with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for varied flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in both the fridge and freezer.

How long does White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts about 3 days, while frozen portions can last up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

This White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) recipe is not only incredibly creamy but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or protein like chicken or bacon. Try making this comforting dish at home, and enjoy its delightful flavors!