White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)
Indulge in the comforting goodness of White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat). This easy-to-make dish captures the rich, creamy flavors of Panera’s beloved mac and cheese, bringing them right to your kitchen. With just six simple ingredients, you can create a delightful meal perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. The luscious white cheddar cheese sauce envelops each bite of pasta, ensuring that this crowd-pleaser will have everyone coming back for seconds. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this satisfying dish that pairs wonderfully with fresh salads or grilled proteins.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces pipettes (or other small pasta)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half & half
- 10 ounces white cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain.
- Heat half & half in a microwave-safe bowl until hot but not boiling.
- In a large pot over low heat, melt butter and stir in flour. Cook for about 2 minutes while whisking.
- Gradually add warm half & half while whisking continuously until smooth and thickened.
- Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheese and salt until fully melted.
- Stir in cooked pasta for 1-2 minutes to absorb the sauce, then serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg