Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese combines two fan favorites into one ultra creamy dish! Make this copycat recipe in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces uncooked pipe rigate pasta or elbow pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrot
- 2 cups broccoli florets chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 3 cups extra sharp white cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pipe rigate pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In another large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded carrot and broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir constantly for about 1 minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add salt, white pepper, mustard powder, and garlic powder, stirring to combine.
- Stir in the ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth until well combined.
- Reduce the heat to low, and gradually add the shredded extra sharp white cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
While pipe rigate is recommended as it is the one Panera uses, other pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or shells work equally well.
Using chicken broth adds a subtle richness to the dish. For a vegetarian option, swap it out with vegetable broth without compromising flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A combination of sharp cheddar and gouda or fontina can add an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 | Calories: 728cal | Carbohydrates: 58g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 44g | Saturated Fat: 26g | Cholesterol: 128mg | Sodium: 966mg | Sugar: 9g | Fiber: 4g | Calcium: 561mg | Iron: 1mg