pizza mac n cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
pizza mac n cheese recipe
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The Best pizza mac n cheese recipe

I am so excited to share this pizza mac n cheese recipe with you all. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for easy and delicious meals that my family will love. This recipe is a game-changer – it’s a perfect blend of two comfort foods in one dish.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. My kids can’t get enough of it, and it’s become a staple in our household.

I’ve even served it at family gatherings, and it’s always a hit. The combination of creamy mac n cheese and savory pizza flavors is absolute perfection. Plus, it’s a great way to get some extra veggies in (hello, hidden spinach!

. I’ve experimented with different types of pasta, but macaroni is my go-to for this recipe. The short shape holds onto the cheese sauce beautifully, making each bite a cheesy dream come true.

This dish is also incredibly versatile – you can customize it with your favorite toppings or leftovers to make it even more special. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a fun twist on a classic casserole, this pizza mac n cheese recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household too.

Pizza Mac and Cheese

Pizza Mac and Cheese

4.8 from 705 votes

A comforting casserole that combines creamy macaroni and cheese with classic pizza toppings. This dish features elbow macaroni in a rich cheese sauce, topped with pepperoni, marinara, and melted mozzarella for a fun twist on two favorites.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 520 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Pizza Topping

1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
1/2 tsp dried oregano

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, then drain in a colander and set aside.
4In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it foams.
5Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns light golden.
6Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
7Continue cooking the sauce over medium heat, whisking often, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
8Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
9Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
10Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread into an even layer.
11Spoon the marinara sauce over the top and spread gently to cover.
12Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese evenly over the marinara.
13Arrange the mini pepperoni slices on top and dust with dried oregano.
14Bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
15Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
16The casserole will be very hot and the cheese will set slightly for easier serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Colander
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 520 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 16g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 890mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 24g

📝Notes

For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. You can substitute turkey pepperoni or cooked Italian sausage for the pepperoni. To make ahead, assemble the dish without baking, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours; add 10 minutes to the baking time.

Watch Video Of How Pizza Mac and Cheese Works

This pizza mac n cheese recipe has become an absolute staple in my household – and for good reason! It’s easy to make, customizable, and most importantly, absolutely delicious.

My family loves it when I serve this dish at family gatherings or weeknight dinners – they know they’ll be getting something tasty and comforting. Plus, as an added bonus, this recipe is packed with hidden veggies (hello spinach!)

that sneakily add extra nutrition to our mealtime routine.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pizza Mac and Cheese

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

I highly recommend using macaroni for this recipe – its short shape holds onto the cheese sauce beautifully.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar?

While cheddar is my top pick, you can definitely experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan for a unique flavor profile.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy crust, make sure to cook your pasta al dente and then mix it with the cheese sauce until just combined.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting traditional pasta with gluten-free alternatives like rice-based or corn-based pasta.

How do I store leftover pizza mac n cheese?

Store leftover pizza mac n cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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