Copycat Panera Mac & Cheese

• 8 oz medium shell pasta
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups whole milk, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 tsp dry mustard powder
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 cups freshly shredded sharp white cheddar (8 oz)
• 2 slices white American cheese, torn
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Boil the pasta in well-salted water for 1 minute less than the package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain.

2. 2

   Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly, until it smells nutty but is not browned.

3. 3

   Slowly pour in the milk and cream while whisking. Add the mustard powder, garlic powder, and nutmeg.

4. 4

   Simmer gently 4 to 5 minutes, whisking often, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.

5. 5

   Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the cheddar a handful at a time, then the American cheese, until completely melted and smooth.

6. 6

   Season with salt and pepper. Fold in the drained pasta. Loosen with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

7. 7

   Rest 3 to 5 minutes. The sauce thickens as it cools slightly. Serve warm.