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Panera Bread’s Signature Macaroni & Cheese

Print Recipe
Course Pasta

Ingredients

  • 1 lb rigati pasta or other small pasta shells
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups 2% milk or cream
  • 6 slices white American cheese chopped
  • 1 cup white cheddar shredded extra-sharp white Vermont cheddar (8 ounces)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard optional

Instructions

  • Prepare pasta according to package directions. Set aside.
  • In large sauce pan, melt butter over low heat.
  • Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute, whisking constantly.
  • Gradually whisk in milk (or cream); cook over medium heat, whisking until mixture thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat.
  • Add cheeses, mustard, salt, and hot sauce, stirring until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
  • Stir in pasta and cook over medium heat for 1 minute (or until thoroughly heated).

Notes

Adapted by Head Chef Dan Kish https://betherainbow.wordpress.com/2012/11/06/panera-bread-macaroni-cheese-recipe-yum/