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Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Bread Copycat)

Creamy, rich, super cheesy and flavorful white cheddar mac and cheese just like Panera Bread’s popular side dish! This dish is from-scratch and made in less than 20 minutes.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time13 minutes
Total Time18 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 490kcal
Author: Eden Westbrook

Ingredients

  • 16 oz uncooked pasta of your choice
  • 4 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk or half and half cold
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 8 oz block extra sharp white cheddar cheese grated
  • 4 oz block white American cheese (or other mild melting cheese like white cheddar) grated

Instructions

  • Cook pasta according to package directions in a large pot with well salted water.

While Pasta is Cooking

  • In a medium sized saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. When melted, whisk in flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly to cook out the raw flour.
  • Begin splashing in milk, small amounts at a time, whisking well. It will seize up, don't panic. Continue pouring milk in small amounts, constantly whisking to ensure smoothness, until the mixture is no longer a paste-like consistency but more like a soupy liquid. Turn heat to medium-low, whisking consistently and getting into the corners (to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom and burns) until bechamel becomes thick and coats the back of a wooden spoon, about 5-8 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in spices.
  • Stir in cheeses, a small handful at a time, whisking in well until the cheese melts completely. Continue until all cheese is incorporated. Taste, and season til you're satisfied.
  • Drain pasta when ready and add back into the large pot; pour cheese sauce over pasta and stir to coat each piece of pasta well. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 490kcal