Creamy Comfort in a Bowl (White Cheddar Mac and Cheese – Panera Copycat)

If you’re searching for a cozy bowl of cheesy goodness that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, look no further than this White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)! Picture this: perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, seamlessly blended with the sharp and creamy notes of white cheddar. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, igniting happy memories of your favorite deli bites. Trust me, once you take a spoonful, you’ll be transported to cheesy heaven!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Get ready to dive into a dish that’s not just delicious but also a breeze to whip up!

– Big, Bold Flavors: The rich white cheddar shines through, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings; everyone will be coming back for seconds!
– Flexible & Fast: With just six ingredients, you’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time!
– Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish is your go-to for cozy nights in, making every meal feel special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather the goodies that will transform your kitchen into a creamy mac and cheese paradise! With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll be on your way to cheesy bliss. The star of the show is, of course, the white cheddar cheese, which adds that lovely bite and richness to the sauce.

Here’s what you’ll need:
– 8 ounces pipettes (or other small pasta)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups half & half
– 10 ounces white cheddar cheese (shredded)
– 3/4 teaspoon salt

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

What’s better than a classic recipe? A customizable one! Here are some tasty twists you can add to your White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat):

– Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this dish suitable for everyone.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in cooked chicken, bacon, or even some sautéed veggies for a hearty addition.
– Make it Spicier: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a flavorful kick.
– Swap the Cheese: Mix it up with a blend of cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.
– Colorful Additions: Add steamed broccoli or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and nutrition!

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

Ready to dive into cheesy indulgence? Let’s get cooking with these straightforward steps!

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pipettes (or your pasta of choice). Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, letting those little tubes await their cheesy destiny.

Step 2: Heat the Half & Half

In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the half & half until hot but not boiling, stirring as needed. Alternatively, you can warm it in a small saucepan over low heat. This will help in creating a smooth sauce later!

Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce

In a large pot or deep skillet over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about 2 minutes. This little roux is the base of your creamy sauce! Slowly pour in the warm half & half while whisking constantly to eliminate lumps. Continue to cook for another minute or two until thick and smooth.

Step 4: Add the Cheddar

Turn off the heat and mix in the shredded white cheddar cheese and salt. Stir until completely melted and your sauce is luxuriously creamy.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Gently fold in the drained pasta, stirring for a minute or two to allow the pasta to soak up that dreamy sauce. Now it’s time to serve up this cheesy delight!

Pro Tips for Making White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)

– Pasta Perfection: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente for the perfect texture that holds up against the creamy sauce.
– Cheese Choices: For an even richer flavor, use a mix of cheeses—add a bit of sharp cheddar or mozzarella for extra creaminess!
– Smooth Operators: Whisk continuously when adding the half & half to ensure a lump-free sauce.
– Salt Balance: Taste your sauce before adding more salt; the cheese can be quite salty on its own!

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

Garnishes

Elevate your mac and cheese with beautiful garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh parsley, crispy bacon bits, or a handful of breadcrumbs toasted in butter for added texture.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy dish with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. You can never go wrong with garlic bread on the side!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a cute dinner party presentation, or set it out in a large bowl for a buffet-style feast. Don’t forget to bring out the fun serving spoons!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure it’s fully cooled before sealing it up!

Freezing

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just note that the texture might change slightly upon reheating.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to bring back that creamy consistency. Stir until heated through, and voila!

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! While pipettes are perfect, feel free to swap in any small pasta you love, like shells or elbow macaroni.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all—it’s creamy and mild! However, you can spice things up by adding a dash of cayenne or your favorite hot sauce.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free pasta.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Sure! You can prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh and combine when ready to serve!

Final Thoughts

This White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) is the epitome of comfort food—rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying! Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. So grab your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and let the cheesy magic begin! Enjoy every delightful bite!