Indulge in the creamy and cheesy goodness of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Mac & Cheese with this easy-to-follow recipe. This dish combines tender pasta with a rich, velvety cheese sauce, complemented by fresh broccoli and a hint of carrot for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
For 1x Recipe:
- ¾ lb uncooked macaroni (or Pipe Regatta)
- 4 tbsp butter
- ½ cup yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 3 cups broccoli florets, small dice
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 ½ cups 2% milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp white pepper
- ½ tsp dry mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Combine the shredded extra sharp white cheddar cheese with the other ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
- 1 cup white American cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sharp yellow cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it is just tender (al dente).
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a sizable skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted.
- Add the diced yellow onion and shredded carrots, and sauté until the onion is translucent and the carrots are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the small-diced broccoli florets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour to the skillet and whisk continuously for approximately 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually add the 2% milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Cheese:
- Stir in the salt, white pepper, dry mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Gradually add the extra sharp white cheddar, white American cheese, and sharp yellow cheddar, stirring until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta, Vegetables, and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta and sautéed vegetables to the cheese sauce.
- Stir until everything is well combined and the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve the Broccoli Cheddar Mac & Cheese hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Conclusion
This homemade version of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy richness of cheese with the freshness of broccoli and a hint of carrot. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the comforting flavors and creamy texture of this delicious mac & cheese!