Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac & Cheese 

by
    

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 

  1. Cook the Pasta: 
  • Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it is just tender (al dente). 
  • Drain and set aside. 
  1. 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. 
  1. 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. 
  1. 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. 
  1. 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. 
  1. 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!