Skip to main content

Macaroni & Cheese for a Crowd

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This classic macaroni cheese is the ultimate comfort food for a large gathering. By using a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, the dish achieves a deep, savoury flavour and an exceptionally melty texture. The addition of evaporated milk ensures a rich, silky sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly, making it a reliable staple for busy weeknights or a vegetarian centrepiece for Sunday lunch.

Designed to serve a crowd, this versatile bake is quick to assemble and easy to scale. It works wonderfully as a standalone meal or served alongside a crisp green salad and some garlic bread to balance the richness. Whether you are hosting friends or prep-cooking for the week ahead, this homemade favourite provides a nutritious and satisfying meal that both children and adults will enjoy.

In this article:

Video picks

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Macaroni & Cheese for a Crowd

  • 1 box (450g) dry, small elbow macaroni, cooked and drained

  • 30g cornflour

  • 2 teaspoons salt

  • 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper

  • 2 cans (350ml each) NESTLÉ® CARNATION® Evaporated Milk

  • 475ml water

  • 60ml butter or margarine

  • 675g (350g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • 120g (110g) shredded Monterey Jack or hot pepper Monterey Jack cheese

  • 1 pinch paprika

How to make Macaroni & Cheese for a Crowd

Back to contents

Preheat oven to 191°C. Grease 13x9-inch baking dish or disposable baking pan.

Combine cornflour, salt and pepper in large saucepan. Stir in evaporated milk, water and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat. Stir in cheeses until melted. Place macaroni into prepared dish. Pour cheese sauce over macaroni; stir to coat. Sprinkle with paprika.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly.

This recipe is made available as a courtesy by VeryBestBaking.com, a property of NESTLÉ USA.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.