Copy cat Panera broccoli cheddar mac and cheese is oozing with a delicious cheesy sauce that encases every noodle and broccoli floret. This crave-worthy meal is the perfect combo of mac and cheese and broccoli cheddar cheese soup.
Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a roaring boil. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook al dente, according to package instructions. In the last 4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli and carrots to the pasta. Once it's done cooking, strain the pasta and vegetables and set to the side.
Make the cheese sauce. Melt the butter over medium heat in a medium-sized pot. Add the flour and stir until it is combined, then allow it to cook for 1 minute. Add the heavy cream, water, chicken boullion, shredded cheese, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Stir and cook the sauce until the cheese is melted.
Toss everything together. Place the pasta in a large bowl, then pour the cheese over the pasta. Stir to combine and coat everything in the cheese sauce. Serve with a sprinkle of cheese on top. Mangia!