Arabella Lombardi Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Made with a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and fontina cheeses, this mac and cheese is creamy, flavorful, and satisfying. Best of all, it’s easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special occasion side dish, Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe is sure to please. So gather your ingredients and let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded fontina cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and fontina cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add macaroni to cheese sauce and stir to coat.
- Pour macaroni and cheese into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle bread crumbs on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- For a creamier mac and cheese, use half-and-half or cream instead of milk.
- Add cooked crumbled bacon or sausage to the mac and cheese for extra flavor.
- Top the mac and cheese with a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
- If you don’t have bread crumbs, you can use crushed crackers or tortilla chips.
- To make a gluten-free mac and cheese, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free bread crumbs.
Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. So experiment with different cheeses, toppings, and flavors to create your own perfect mac and cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of cheese to use for mac and cheese?
A blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and fontina cheeses is a classic combination that works well for mac and cheese. However, you can use any type of cheese that you like. Some other good options include Gruyere, Parmesan, or Gouda.
Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can make mac and cheese ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. To do this, simply follow the recipe instructions and then let the mac and cheese cool completely. Transfer the mac and cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the mac and cheese in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
How do I make mac and cheese creamy?
There are a few things you can do to make mac and cheese creamy. First, use a good quality cheese that melts well. Second, add milk or cream to the cheese sauce. Third, cook the mac and cheese until the sauce is thickened and bubbly. Finally, let the mac and cheese stand for a few minutes before serving so that the sauce can thicken even more.
Can I freeze mac and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze mac and cheese. To do this, simply follow the recipe instructions and then let the mac and cheese cool completely. Transfer the mac and cheese to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the mac and cheese in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and give it a try today!
I hope you enjoy this recipe! If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
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