Dinner

Carbonara Cacio e Pepe Mac & Cheese Recipe

Name: Carbonara Cacio e Pepe Mac & Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 50g butter, plus extra for the dish; 150g smoked diced pancetta; 1 tsp cracked black pepper; 50g plain flour; 700ml whole milk; 350g macaroni; 150g extra mature cheddar, grated; 50g parmesan, finely grated; 50g grated mozzarella; 50g panko breadcrumbs; Remaining parmesan (approx. 25g) for scattering

ByJake Silas November 20, 2025November 20, 2025

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Introduction

This Carbonara Cacio e Pepe Mac & Cheese is a delightful fusion of classic Italian flavors and comforting cheesy pasta. With crispy pancetta, a peppery cheese sauce, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner that feels both familiar and special.

A white baking dish filled with golden mac and cheese topped with a crunchy, browned breadcrumb layer. A portion is being lifted with a fork, showing gooey, melted cheese stretching in long strands between the dish and a slice on a stack of white plates. The mac and cheese layers show creamy cheese sauce mixed with soft pasta, and the crispy top has a buttery toasted look. The scene is set on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

50g butter, plus extra for the dish
150g smoked diced pancetta
1 tsp cracked black pepper
50g plain flour
700ml whole milk
350g macaroni
150g extra mature cheddar, grated
50g parmesan, finely grated
50g grated mozzarella
50g panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until sizzling. Add the pancetta and fry for 5-6 minutes until crisp and golden.
Step 2: Reduce the heat to low, stir in the cracked black pepper, and cook for 2 minutes until toasted.
Step 3: Add the flour and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly.
Step 4: Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring until thickened.
Step 5: Meanwhile, cook the macaroni following the pack instructions until al dente, then drain well.
Step 6: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the cheddar and half the parmesan until melted and smooth. Season to taste if needed.
Step 7: Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce, then fold in the mozzarella just before baking.
Step 8: Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or gas mark 6. Butter a 25 x 18cm ovenproof dish.
Step 9: Spoon the pasta mixture into the dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs and the remaining parmesan.
Step 10: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbling. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly cracked black pepper for a more intense flavor.
Swap pancetta with smoked bacon if pancetta isn’t available.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for extra warmth.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and pasta, and check the panko breadcrumbs are gluten-free or substitute with crushed nuts.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C until warmed through to retain the crispy topping, or microwave covered for a quicker option, though the topping may soften.

How to Serve

A white baking dish filled with golden-brown macaroni and cheese topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer spread evenly on top, the creamy yellow pasta beneath bubbling slightly at the edges. A white plate stacked on two other plates nearby shows a generous serving of the macaroni and cheese, with long stretchy strands of melted cheese pulled from the dish by a spoon held in a woman's hand, the pasta looking soft and coated in gooey cheese. The surface is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the mac & cheese and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I use if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

You can substitute regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for the crunchy topping. For added flavor, mix them with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.