Macaroni and Cheese- Panera Bread Recipe

Panera Bread is one of my favorite spots to have a lunch date,

or take my huge backpack and camp out 

while preparing lessons and studying the Word.

Of course, I like that they have wifi and power outlets and booths,

but the best part is their food!

Everything always tastes fresh and is healthier than other fast food options.

Plus, on their website they offer recipes for some of their most popular items

including their mac n cheese.

This macaroni and cheese is rich and creamy and super cheesy! 

I thought it turned out really good and tasted just like the side dish you get there.

What You'll Need:
1 lb. pasta shapes, such as shells
4 tbsp. unsalted butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2½ cups milk or half-and-half
1 tsp. salt
1½-2 tsp. Dijon mustard
¼ tsp. hot sauce
4 oz. white American cheese, finely chopped
8 oz. white cheddar cheese, shredded

What To Do:

• Bring a large pot of water to boil.  Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.  Drain well.  Return to the stockpot off the heat.
• Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat.  Stir in the flour and cook until light golden brown, whisking constantly, about 1½-2  minutes.  Slowly whisk in the milk until no lumps remain.  Stir in the salt, mustard, and hot sauce.  Lower the heat to medium and continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it bubbles and thickens, about 6-8 minutes.
• Remove the sauce from the heat.  Stir in the cheese a handful at a time, mixing until fully melted before adding more.  Once all the cheese has been added and the sauce is smooth, pour the sauce over the pasta in the stockpot.  Mix well until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.  Serve immediately.

from Annie's Eats, originally from Panera Bread