Who can resist the creamy, cheesy goodness of Panera’s Broccoli Mac and Cheese? It’s the perfect comfort food—a luscious blend of tender pasta, rich cheese sauce, and fresh broccoli that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Whether you’re a fan of Panera’s version or just love a hearty bowl of mac and cheese, this recipe brings those same cozy flavors right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
To recreate the irresistible Panera Broccoli Mac and Cheese at home, we need a mix of fresh produce, quality cheeses, and pantry staples. Everything from the creamy cheese sauce to the tender pasta and vibrant broccoli comes together for a comforting dish that’s sure to please.
For The Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
- 1/2 cup white American cheese (cubed or shredded)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of ground mustard (optional for extra depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Broccoli Mac And Cheese
- 8 ounces of elbow macaroni (or substitute with shells/another short pasta)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (to adjust sauce consistency)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)
Tools And Equipment
To achieve the creamy perfection of Panera’s Broccoli Mac and Cheese, having the right tools and equipment is crucial. Here’s what we’ll need to make the cooking process smooth and efficient:
Essential Tools:
- Large Pot: For boiling the elbow macaroni and blanching the broccoli. Opt for a pot with a generous size to prevent overcrowding.
- Colander: To drain pasta and broccoli without overcooking.
- Medium Saucepan: For making the creamy cheese sauce. A heavy-bottomed saucepan is ideal to avoid scorching.
- Whisk: For blending the butter, flour, and milk into a smooth roux. A silicone whisk works best for non-stick cookware.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the cheese sauce consistently to maintain a creamy texture.
- Fine Grater: Use this for freshly grating the sharp cheddar cheese, ensuring it melts evenly in the sauce.
Additional Equipment:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cutting Board | To chop the fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. |
| Chef’s Knife | Ensures precision while chopping broccoli and eliminates uneven cuts. |
| Measuring Cups | Essential for accurately portioning milk, cream, and cheeses. |
| Measuring Spoons | To measure the seasonings like salt, pepper, and optional mustard powder. |
| Serving Dish | A sturdy dish to transfer and serve the finished Broccoli Mac and Cheese. |
Tips for Choosing the Right Tools:
- Always use a non-stick saucepan to avoid the cheese sticking during the sauce preparation.
- Choose a colander with small holes to ensure no small pasta pieces escape during draining.
- A medium-sized whisk ensures even mixing of the butter and flour, preventing lumps in the roux.
Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to recreate Panera’s Broccoli Mac and Cheese at home. Each step ensures a creamy, indulgent dish with perfectly-cooked pasta, tender broccoli, and a velvety cheese sauce.
Prep
- Prepare the ingredients:
- Chop 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces.
- Measure out 1 pound of elbow macaroni.
- Shred 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese and slice 1 cup of white American cheese, ensuring both melt smoothly.
- Set up your workspace:
- Gather all necessary tools like a large pot, colander, medium saucepan, whisk, and spatula.
- Have measuring cups and spoons ready for accurate measurements.
- Prepare for efficiency:
- Boil water in a large pot for the pasta and broccoli to save time during assembly.
Make The Cheese Sauce
- Start the roux:
- Heat 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until melted.
- Add 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light golden and bubbling.
- Add the dairy:
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Incorporate the cheese:
- Reduce to low heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar and white American cheese slowly, allowing each addition to melt completely.
- Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper, and a pinch of paprika or nutmeg for depth.
- Keep warm:
- Turn off the heat but keep the cheese sauce on the stove to stay warm and smooth. Stir occasionally.
Cook The Pasta And Broccoli
- Cook the pasta:
- In the boiling pot of salted water, add 1 pound of elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions (around 7-8 minutes) until al dente.
- Blanch the broccoli:
- During the last 2 minutes of the pasta’s cooking time, add the chopped broccoli florets to the same pot. This step ensures the broccoli is tender yet crisp.
- Drain immediately:
- Using a colander, drain the pasta and broccoli together. Do not rinse, as this will help the sauce cling better.
Combine And Assemble
- Combine pasta, broccoli, and sauce:
- Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the large pot. Pour the warm cheese sauce over them.
- Toss gently:
- Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold the sauce into the pasta and broccoli until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
- Serve hot:
- Scoop the Broccoli Mac and Cheese into bowls or a serving dish. Optionally, top with extra shredded cheddar for a cheesy garnish.
| Step | Time Required | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Prep | 10-15 minutes | Measure and chop precisely for ease. |
| Cheese Sauce | 10-12 minutes | Whisk nonstop for a lump-free sauce. |
| Pasta & Broccoli | 8-10 minutes | Save time by boiling them together. |
| Combine | 5 minutes | Fold sauce gently to avoid breaking pasta. |
Serving Suggestions
When serving our Panera Broccoli Mac and Cheese, presentation and pairing can take this comforting dish to the next level. Here are a few creative and simple ways to enjoy it:
1. Complete the Comfort Meal
Serve your warm, creamy broccoli mac and cheese in shallow bowls, topped with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a light touch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Pair this with a side of Panera-style baguette slices or buttered sourdough bread to scoop up every last bit of the cheesy sauce.
2. Perfect Side Dish
This recipe also shines as a side dish alongside roasted or grilled proteins. Here are a few pairing options:
| Protein Option | Cooking Method |
|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Breast | Lightly seasoned, sliced |
| Pan-Seared Salmon | Topped with lemon dill |
| Honey-Glazed Ham | Thinly sliced |
| Rotisserie Turkey | Herb-seasoned |
The creamy texture of the cheese sauce, combined with tender broccoli florets, balances out savory mains perfectly.
3. Elegant Garnishes
Elevate your plating with garnishes that add both flavor and visual appeal:
- Crumbled bacon for smoky crunch.
- A drizzle of truffle oil for gourmet flair.
- Chopped chives or parsley for a fresh pop of color.
4. Family-Style Feast
For gatherings, serve the broccoli mac and cheese in a large, oven-safe serving dish. Keep it warm by placing it in the oven on the low setting (about 200°F) until ready to serve. Add a crunchy panko breadcrumb topping (lightly toasted with butter) for texture.
5. Kid-Friendly Option
Serve smaller portions in ramekins or fun-shaped bowls alongside crunchy veggie sticks like carrots or celery. For picky eaters, the creamy sauce and cheesy goodness often make this a hit even with minimal adjustments.
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
Preparing Panera-style Broccoli Mac and Cheese ahead of time or storing leftovers properly ensures the dish stays creamy and delicious. Here are some essential tips to maximize freshness and flavor:
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare individual components: Cook the pasta and blanch the broccoli in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much sauce and turning mushy.
- Make the cheese sauce ahead: Prepare the creamy cheese sauce, allow it to cool completely, and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat over low heat, stirring continuously and adding a splash of milk or cream for a smooth consistency.
- Assemble just before serving: Mix the cooked pasta, broccoli, and reheated cheese sauce together just before serving for the freshest texture and taste.
Storage Tips
Refrigerating Leftovers
- Transfer any leftover mac and cheese to a shallow, airtight container once it cools to room temperature. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- When reheating, use the stovetop over low heat or the microwave in 30-second increments. Add a small amount of milk or cream and stir gently to restore its creamy texture.
Freezing
- While freezing is an option, it may slightly alter the texture of the cheese sauce. If you choose to freeze:
- Cool the dish completely and transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Label it with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat slowly over the stovetop with additional milk or cream for the best results.
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate (assembled) | Up to 3 days | Add milk/cream, reheat gently |
| Refrigerate (components) | Up to 3 days | Reheat separately, then assemble |
| Freeze (assembled) | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight, reheat with added dairy |
Additional Tips For Best Results
- Avoid overcooking: Slightly undercook the pasta if you plan to reheat it later, as it will soften during reheating.
- Use fresh cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that might cause the sauce’s texture to change over time. Grate fresh cheese for optimal creaminess when reheating.
- Portion control: Divide into smaller portions before refrigerating or freezing for easy single servings and quicker reheating.
Conclusion
Recreating Panera’s Broccoli Mac and Cheese at home is a rewarding way to enjoy its comforting flavors anytime. With the right ingredients, tools, and a few simple steps, we can whip up a dish that’s just as creamy and satisfying as the original. Whether served as a main course or a side, it’s a versatile recipe that brings warmth to any table.
By following our tips for preparation, serving, and storage, we can ensure every bite is as fresh and delicious as the first. This recipe isn’t just about the meal—it’s about creating a cozy, homemade experience we can share with loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Panera’s Broccoli Mac and Cheese special?
Panera’s Broccoli Mac and Cheese combines tender macaroni with a creamy, rich cheese sauce and fresh, sweet broccoli. It’s a comforting, balanced dish with indulgent flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a popular choice for cozy meals.
What ingredients do I need to make this dish?
The dish requires butter, flour, milk, cream, sharp cheddar, white American cheese, pasta (elbow macaroni), broccoli, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Optional toppings like Parmesan, bacon, or red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor.
What tools do I need to cook Broccoli Mac and Cheese?
Key tools include a large pot, colander, medium saucepan, whisk, wooden spoon, cutting board, chef’s knife, measuring cups, and a serving dish. Non-stick cookware is recommended for easy cooking and cleanup.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare components separately. Cook the cheese sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore the creaminess. Store ingredients separately to maintain texture before combining when ready to serve.
How can I reheat leftover Broccoli Mac and Cheese?
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a little milk or cream while heating to improve consistency. Avoid overheating to prevent the cheese sauce from splitting or drying out.
Can I freeze Broccoli Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it, but the texture may slightly change. For best results, freeze the cheese sauce and pasta separately in airtight containers. Thaw and reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.
How do I serve this dish creatively?
Serve in shallow bowls with Parmesan, panko, or red pepper flakes. Pair with a baguette, sourdough bread, or as a side dish to grilled chicken, salmon, or turkey. Add truffle oil, fresh herbs, or crumbled bacon for an elegant touch.
Can this dish be made kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Portion the mac and cheese into smaller, colorful bowls and serve with veggie sticks for added appeal. Kids often enjoy the creamy texture and mild flavor of the cheese sauce.
How can I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Avoid overcooking the pasta during boiling. Cook it al dente (firm to the bite). If blanching broccoli together with pasta, adjust the timing to ensure both ingredients maintain the right texture.
What are some key tips for a creamy cheese sauce?
Use fresh, high-quality cheeses like sharp cheddar and white American cheese. Create a smooth roux with butter and flour, and whisk continuously while adding milk and cream for a lump-free consistency. Season to taste before mixing in the cheese.