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Chicken Spiedini Recipe

Creamy Italian Mac and Cheese Recipe

Rebecca
This Italian twist on a classic comfort food combines a creamy cheese sauce made from mozzarella, fontina, provolone, and parmesan with crispy pancetta and golden breadcrumbs. It’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for both casual dinners and special gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6
Calories 885 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Macaroni elbows – Enough for 6 servings about 12 oz, cooked al dente
  • 1 cup Mozzarella shredded
  • 1 cup Fontina shredded
  • 1 cup Provolone shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan grated (reserve half for topping)
  • 3 cups Whole milk
  • 4 tbsp Butter
  • 2 tbsp Flour
  • ½ cup Pancetta diced
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley chopped
  • ½ cup Seasoned breadcrumbs

Instructions
 

  • Chop pancetta into small cubes and place them in a cold frying pan over medium heat. Starting cold helps render the fat evenly. Cook for about six minutes until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Be sure to drain any excess grease.
  • While the pancetta is cooling, bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, stopping when just al dente. Drain but keep the pasta warm so it blends smoothly with the sauce.
  • Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly until smooth, creating a roux. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly, and simmer gently. Slowly add shredded mozzarella, fontina, and provolone, stirring until fully melted. Reserve half the parmesan for topping later!
  • Add the warm pasta to your cheese sauce, making sure each macaroni is coated in creamy goodness. Toss in half of the pancetta for extra flavor. Mix everything together thoroughly.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pour the pasta mixture into your baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle breadcrumbs, the remaining parmesan, and the rest of the pancetta over the top. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  • Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped parsley over the mac and cheese for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately while it’s gooey and warm!

Notes

  • Toast the Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, toast breadcrumbs in a dry pan before topping.
  • Use Warm Pasta: Helps blend better with the sauce and avoids clumping.
  • Salt Caution: Pancetta and parmesan are salty—taste before adding more salt.
  • Don’t Rush the Roux: Whisk until golden and the flour smell disappears for a silky sauce.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare and refrigerate or freeze unbaked. Add 10–15 minutes to bake time if cooking from frozen.
Keyword Creamy Italian Mac and Cheese Recipe