White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat)
White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Panera Copycat) is the ultimate comfort food that brings rich, creamy flavors right to your kitchen. This easy-to-follow recipe features a velvety cheese sauce made with just six simple ingredients, making it a perfect choice for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this indulgent dish that will please both kids and adults alike. With its smooth texture and delicious white cheddar taste, you’ll want to serve this flavorful macaroni and cheese again and again.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces pipette pasta (or small pasta)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half & half
- 10 ounces shredded white cheddar cheese
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions for al dente; drain well.
- Heat half & half in a microwave-safe bowl until hot but not boiling.
- In a large pot over low heat, melt butter, then whisk in flour for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add warm half & half while whisking until thickened (1-2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese and salt until smooth.
- Mix cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, allowing it to sit briefly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg