Enjoy the creamy comfort of our Copycat Panera Mac and Cheese recipe right in the comfort of your own kitchen. With its velvety cheese sauce paired with perfectly cooked pasta, it's no wonder people keep coming back for more.
Cook the pasta shells on stove top until al dente. Drain.In a large saucepan on the stove top, melt butter. Add flour and whisk to make a roux. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisk. Cook the mixture until it begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
Add black pepper, salt, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce (if using).Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and American cheese until melted and smooth.