Before diving into the delightful world of Panera’s mac and cheese bread bowl, consider what pairs well with this dish to elevate the experience.
A simple garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy cheese, especially when tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables, such as caramelized bell peppers and zucchini, offer a sweet and savory balance, with roasting enhancing their natural sugars.
For a heartier option, add sliced grilled chicken to make the meal more filling. A light fruit salad, featuring berries or a citrus mix, can brighten up the plate and balance the richness. For an exciting zing, a side of dill pickles delivers a tangy crunch that perfectly complements the dish.
With these pairings, you’re ready to enjoy the main star of the show—Panera’s mac and cheese bread bowl!
You’re walking into Panera, the cozy atmosphere wrapping around you like a warm hug. The scent of freshly baked bread beckons. Your eyes drift over to the menu, but something catches your attention—a bread bowl filled with warm, creamy macaroni and cheese.
You can almost taste it before you order. This isn’t just food; it’s comfort. It’s warmth served in a crusty, edible bowl.
Intrigued? Good! Let’s explore why the Panera mac and cheese bread bowl is more than a meal. It’s an experience, an indulgence worth savoring. In this article, we’ll break down the dish, discuss its ins and outs, and even give you a chance to create this delight at home. Ready? Let’s go!
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What is Panera Mac and Cheese Bread Bowl?
The Panera mac and cheese bread bowl is a delightful combination of two comfort foods.
It features their classic macaroni and cheese, made from a blend of rich cheeses, served hot inside a freshly baked bread bowl. This unique serving method not only elevates the dish aesthetically but also enhances flavor and texture.
The bread absorbs some of the cheese’s creaminess, creating a meal that’s satisfying and delicious. Ideal for lunch or dinner, this dish is a favorite among many for its indulgent flavor and unique presentation.
What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Panera Mac and Cheese Bread Bowls?
So what sets this apart from the standard mac and cheese? The bread, for starters. It gives your taste buds two experiences in one bite. The crusty outer layer complements the smooth, creamy mac and cheese inside.
Panera’s method involves combining quality ingredients. Their mac and cheese features a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and a touch of smoked paprika. This mix offers a depth of flavor you won’t find in a typical boxed mac and cheese.
Moreover, the bread bowl concept transforms a familiar dish into something interactive. You can dunk, scoop, and savor! As you reach the final bites, the flavors meld beautifully.
How Does It Taste?
Imagine for a moment dipping your spoon into a bowl filled with creamy mac and cheese. The first bite is a hug for your taste buds, rich and smooth, with just the right amount of seasoning. The cheese stretches as you pull away, creating a delightful anticipation for the next scoop.
Then comes the bread. Soft on the inside, crusty on the outside, it holds warmth like a comforting embrace.
Each bite captures the mac and cheese, making it a fulfilling experience. Scents of cheese and freshly baked bread mingle in a way that simply shouts comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
To make this delightful dish, grab the following ingredients.
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 round loaves of bread (6-8 inches in diameter)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (mild or medium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional Garnish:
- 3/4 cup frozen broccoli florets
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Step by Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to bring the Panera mac and cheese bread bowl to your home kitchen.
Step 1: Boil the Macaroni
Start by bringing 1 1/2 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Add the elbow macaroni and a pinch of sea salt. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Add the cooked macaroni and stir in the onion powder, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until it melts and combines into a creamy sauce.
Step 3: Hollow the Bread
While the cheese is melting, take your round loaves of bread. Carefully slice off the top of each loaf and use a serrated knife to hollow out the insides. Save the bread you remove; it makes a great addition to soups or can be used for breadcrumbs!
Step 4: Combine the Sauce and Bread
Once the cheese sauce is creamy and smooth, spoon it generously into each hollowed-out bread bowl. Don’t be shy—fill ‘em up!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
If you want to add a bit of color and nutrition, sprinkle some frozen broccoli florets and crushed red pepper flakes on top. Now they are ready for serving. Enjoy immediately while everything is piping hot!
Tips & Tricks On Making Panera Mac and Cheese Bread Bowl
Here are some handy tips to ensure that your bread bowls turn out perfect!
- Quality Cheese Matters: Use good-quality cheese for the best flavor. A combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates a satisfying texture.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente. It will absorb some liquid once added to the cheese sauce.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like garlic powder or fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Keep the Bread Warm: If you’d like, warm the bread bowls in the oven briefly before filling them. This can enhance the overall experience.
- Avoid Soggy Bread: If you anticipate leftovers, serve the mac and cheese on the side with the bread bowl to prevent sogginess.
How Do I Store This Dish?
If you happen to have leftovers (though this dish is pretty tempting), you can store it easily!
- Refrigerate: Place any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container. It should last about 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the mac and cheese filling separately, although the bread bowl is best served fresh. Simply reheat the cheese sauce when ready to enjoy.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Panera Mac and Cheese Bread Bowl?
Sometimes you may not have all the ingredients on hand, or you want to mix things up. Here are some great substitutions:
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute your forgotten elbow macaroni with a gluten-free version if needed. There are plenty of tasty options available now.
- Alternative Cheeses: Try using Gruyère or fontina for a different cheese flavor. These melt well and add a unique twist.
- Non-Dairy Milk: If you’re avoiding dairy, use almond milk or a different plant-based milk. It may slightly alter the flavor, but it can still be creamy.
- Different Bread Types: Switch it up with sourdough or even pretzel bread for a unique flavor. Just ensure it can hold the mac and cheese.
- Add Protein: You can include shredded chicken or cooked bacon for a meatier experience. Just mix it into the cheese sauce!
Equipment
- medium pot
- Separate saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 round loaves of bread 6-8 inches in diameter
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese mild or medium preferred
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional Garnish:
- 3/4 cup frozen broccoli florets
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to bring the Panera mac and cheese bread bowl to your home kitchen.
Step 1: Boil the Macaroni
- Start by bringing 1 1/2 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot. Add the elbow macaroni and a pinch of sea salt. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Add the cooked macaroni and stir in the onion powder, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until it melts and combines into a creamy sauce.
Step 3: Hollow the Bread
- While the cheese is melting, take your round loaves of bread. Carefully slice off the top of each loaf and use a serrated knife to hollow out the insides. Save the bread you remove; it makes a great addition to soups or can be used for breadcrumbs!
Step 4: Combine the Sauce and Bread
- Once the cheese sauce is creamy and smooth, spoon it generously into each hollowed-out bread bowl. Don’t be shy—fill ‘em up!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- If you want to add a bit of color and nutrition, sprinkle some frozen broccoli florets and crushed red pepper flakes on top. Now they are ready for serving. Enjoy immediately while everything is piping hot!
Notes
- Quality Cheese Matters: Use good-quality cheese for the best flavor. A combination of cheddar and mozzarella creates a satisfying texture.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente. It will absorb some liquid once added to the cheese sauce.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like garlic powder or fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Keep the Bread Warm: If you’d like, warm the bread bowls in the oven briefly before filling them. This can enhance the overall experience.
- Avoid Soggy Bread: If you anticipate leftovers, serve the mac and cheese on the side with the bread bowl to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! This dish is already vegetarian. The ingredients like macaroni and cheese are meat-free, making it suitable for vegetarians. Just be cautious about any added toppings you wish to include.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can experiment with different pasta shapes like shells, penne, or rotini. Just ensure the cooking time remains consistent with the pasta type.
3. How long does the dish take to prepare?
From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 30 minutes on preparation and cooking. It’s a quick, satisfying recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner.
4. Is it okay to prepare the cheese sauce the day before?
Yes! You can make the cheese sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it and pour it into the bread bowls.
5. What beverages pair well with this dish?
You might enjoy a light beverage like iced tea or soda. For adults, a crisp white wine complements the flavors nicely, while kids might prefer lemonade to balance the richness.
Conclusion
The Panera mac and cheese bread bowl is more than just a dish; it’s an experience packed with comfort and flavor. With its creamy center encased in soft, warm bread, it satisfies cravings in the best way possible.
Creating this at home is not just a culinary adventure—it’s a heartfelt treat that’s great for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
So roll up your sleeves and embrace the ease of this recipe! Enjoy every creamy bite, and let the flavors wrap around you like a warm blanket. Deliciousness awaits, and it’s time to dig in!