White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) recipe. Bringing the creamy, rich flavors of Panera’s famous dish right to your kitchen, this easy recipe requires just six ingredients and can be prepared in about 30 minutes. The velvety white cheddar cheese creates a luscious sauce that coats each piece of pasta, making it an instant family favorite. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this mac and cheese is sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables for added flair. Dive into this delightful dish that perfectly balances simplicity and indulgence.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces pipette pasta (or small pasta)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half & half
- 10 ounces shredded white cheddar cheese
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat half & half until hot but not boiling.
- In a large pot over low heat, melt butter, then whisk in flour for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add the warm half & half while whisking until smooth; cook for another minute until thickened.
- Stir in shredded white cheddar cheese and salt until fully melted and combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve immediately for best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 85mg