Panera Bread Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe: Cheesy & Comforting Dish

I can’t tell you how excited I was when I finally recreated Panera Bread’s Broccoli Mac and Cheese at home. The creamy, cheesy sauce with tender pasta and fresh broccoli instantly reminded me of their cozy bowls.

Making it in my own kitchen felt like such a win, especially since it comes together so quickly.

I love that I can tweak the flavors to my liking without losing that restaurant-style comfort. Honestly, this recipe has become one of my favorite weeknight dinners.

Panera Bread Broccoli Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays its part in creating a creamy, cheesy dish that tastes just like the Panera classic.

2 tablespoons butter – builds a rich, smooth base for the sauce.
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth – adds depth and infuses the pasta as it cooks.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – gives a mild, savory flavor.
1 teaspoon onion powder – enhances the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon ground mustard powder – balances out the richness with a light tang.
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional) – a gentle kick of heat if you like spice.
Salt and black pepper to taste – adjust to your liking.
8 ounces medium pasta shells – their shape holds the sauce perfectly.
1 ½ cups broccoli florets – fresh broccoli keeps the texture firm and flavorful (avoid frozen).
½ cup shredded carrots – adds sweetness and color.
1 cup half and half – makes the sauce velvety smooth.
4 ounces cream cheese, softened – ensures creaminess in every bite.
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded – fresh grating gives the best melt and taste.

Note: Serves 4 hearty portions.

Variations

This recipe is easy to adapt based on your taste or dietary needs.

Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based milk, and vegan cheddar.
Gluten-Free Swap: Use gluten-free pasta made from rice or chickpeas.
Extra Cheesy: Mix in white cheddar or Monterey Jack for more cheesy goodness.
Spice Lover’s Kick: Add extra cayenne or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Cooking Time

Here’s how quickly you can have this creamy dish on your table.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You’ll Need

The right tools make this recipe simple and stress-free.

Large skillet with lid – perfect for one-pot cooking.
Silicone spoon – stirs everything without scratching your pan.
Cheese grater – for freshly shredded cheddar.

How to Make Panera Bread Broccoli Mac and Cheese?

This recipe is quick, easy, and all in one pot. Here’s how I make it step by step.

Create the Creamy Base

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Pour in the broth and whisk it with garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and cayenne if you’re using it. I love how the warm butter and spices instantly create a rich aroma in the kitchen.

Cook the Pasta and Veggies

Add the pasta shells, broccoli florets, and shredded carrots straight into the skillet. Stir gently so everything is coated with the seasoned broth. Let it come to a boil, then cover with a lid and reduce the heat. Simmer until the pasta is just tender. If the liquid evaporates too fast, I add a little extra broth.

Make the Cheese Sauce

When the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the half and half, then add the softened cream cheese. Keep mixing until smooth and creamy. Slowly sprinkle in the shredded cheddar, stirring as it melts into a luscious sauce that clings to every shell.

Taste and Serve

Season with more salt and pepper if needed. I like to serve it right away in shallow bowls, sprinkled with parsley or an extra pinch of cheese. It always feels like a restaurant treat, but homemade and cozy.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this a few times, I’ve picked up tricks that make it even more delicious.

I always shred the cheddar fresh—it melts better and tastes sharper.
Don’t overcook the pasta since it softens more in the sauce.
If the sauce feels too thick, I thin it out with a splash of milk or broth.
I like to soften cream cheese beforehand so it blends in smoothly.

How to Serve Panera Bread Broccoli Mac and Cheese?

Serving it well makes it extra special. I like using wide bowls so the creamy texture really stands out. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or red pepper flakes gives it color and a little zing. For a complete meal, pair it with garlic bread, roasted chicken, or a fresh green salad. If you’re craving crunch, a toasted breadcrumb topping works beautifully.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the approximate nutrition per serving of this creamy comfort dish:

Calories: 685
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 41g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is great for meal prep or leftovers.

Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk/broth to loosen the sauce.
Freeze: Place in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This Panera-style dish checks all the boxes. Here’s why I keep making it again and again.

Easy One-Pot Cooking: Less cleanup, more flavor, and super quick.
Restaurant-Style Comfort: Tastes like Panera, but homemade.
Family-Friendly: My kids love it just as much as I do.
Customizable: Adjust flavors, spice, and cheese types to your liking.
Versatile: Works perfectly as a main dish or a comforting side.

Ash Tyrrell