If you’re a fan of Panera Bread, then you’ve probably tried their famous mac and cheese. It’s a deliciously creamy and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. But have you ever wondered about the nutritional value of Panera Bread’s mac and cheese? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Panera Bread mac and cheese nutrition and answer some commonly asked questions.
Table of Contents
What are the ingredients in Panera Bread’s mac and cheese?
Before we dive into the nutritional value of Panera Bread’s mac and cheese, let’s take a look at the ingredients. According to Panera Bread’s website, the mac and cheese is made with the following ingredients:
- Enriched elbow macaroni (semolina wheat flour, niacin, ferrous sulfate, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid)
- Milk
- Whey protein concentrate
- Butter (cream, salt)
- Cheddar cheese (pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes)
- Heavy cream
- Cornstarch
- Salt
- Annatto extract (color)
How many calories are in Panera Bread’s mac and cheese?
According to Panera Bread’s website, a small serving of their mac and cheese (8 oz.) contains 390 calories. A large serving (16 oz.) contains 770 calories. Keep in mind that these calorie counts are for the mac and cheese alone and do not include any sides or drinks you may order.
Is Panera Bread’s mac and cheese high in fat?
Yes, Panera Bread’s mac and cheese is relatively high in fat. A small serving (8 oz.) contains 21g of fat, while a large serving (16 oz.) contains 42g of fat. Of that fat, 13g comes from saturated fat. It’s important to note that while some fats are essential for a healthy diet, too much saturated fat can increase your risk of heart disease.
Does Panera Bread’s mac and cheese contain any protein?
Yes, Panera Bread’s mac and cheese does contain some protein. A small serving (8 oz.) contains 12g of protein, while a large serving (16 oz.) contains 24g of protein. However, it’s worth noting that there are other, healthier sources of protein that you could choose instead.
How much sodium is in Panera Bread’s mac and cheese?
Panera Bread’s mac and cheese is relatively high in sodium. A small serving (8 oz.) contains 830mg of sodium, while a large serving (16 oz.) contains 1,660mg of sodium. The recommended daily intake of sodium for adults is 2,300mg per day, so a large serving of Panera Bread’s mac and cheese contains over half of your daily recommended intake.
Is there any fiber in Panera Bread’s mac and cheese?
Unfortunately, Panera Bread’s mac and cheese does not contain any fiber. Fiber is an essential part of a healthy diet, as it can help regulate digestion and lower your risk of certain health conditions such as heart disease.
Is Panera Bread’s mac and cheese gluten-free?
No, Panera Bread’s mac and cheese is not gluten-free. The elbow macaroni used in the dish contains semolina wheat flour, which is a source of gluten. If you have a gluten intolerance or celiac disease, you should avoid Panera Bread’s mac and cheese.
What do people think of Panera Bread’s mac and cheese nutrition?
Opinions on Panera Bread’s mac and cheese nutrition vary. Some people enjoy the dish as an occasional treat and don’t worry too much about its nutritional value. Others are concerned about its high calorie and fat content and choose to avoid it altogether. Ultimately, the decision about whether or not to include Panera Bread’s mac and cheese in your diet is up to you and your personal health goals.
Panera Bread Mac and Cheese Nutrition Facts
To summarize, here is a table that breaks down the nutritional value of a small serving (8 oz.) and a large serving (16 oz.) of Panera Bread’s mac and cheese:
| Small Serving (8 oz.) | Large Serving (16 oz.) | |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 390 | 770 |
| Total Fat | 21g | 42g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g | 26g |
| Cholesterol | 65mg | 130mg |
| Sodium | 830mg | 1,660mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 32g | 63g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g | 0g |
| Sugars | 4g | 9g |
| Protein | 12g | 24g |
Conclusion
Panera Bread’s mac and cheese is a deliciously creamy and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. However, it’s important to be aware of its nutritional value and potential impact on your health. While it does contain some protein, it’s relatively high in calories, fat, and sodium, and does not provide any fiber. If you choose to indulge in Panera Bread’s mac and cheese, do so in moderation and balance it out with other healthy choices in your diet.
