pizza macaroni and cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best pizza macaroni and cheese recipe

If you love pizza and you love macaroni and cheese, then this pizza macaroni and cheese recipe is going to be your new favorite. I started making this when my kids were asking for pizza and mac and cheese on the same night, and I just couldn’t pick one. Now it’s a regular in our dinner rotation, and even my picky eater cleans his plate. It’s a creamy, cheesy pasta dish with all the classic pizza toppings baked right in, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family get togethers. Plus, you can sneak in some veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, and the whole thing comes together in one dish, which makes cleanup easy.

Pizza Macaroni and Cheese

4.7 from 1812 votes

A fun and delicious mashup of two classic comfort foods. Creamy macaroni and cheese is loaded with pizza sauce, pepperoni, and mozzarella, then baked until bubbly and golden.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Cheese Sauce

1 pound elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pizza Toppings

1 cup pizza sauce
1 cup mini pepperoni slices
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking, whisking often, until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
5Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Pour half of the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish.
7Spread the pizza sauce over the macaroni layer. Top with pepperoni, bell pepper, and olives.
8Spoon the remaining mac and cheese over the toppings and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
9Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

You can swap the pepperoni for cooked Italian sausage or ground beef. For a vegetarian version, just load it up with extra veggies like mushrooms and onions.

Watch Video Of How Pizza Macaroni and Cheese Works

This pizza macaroni and cheese recipe is a crowd pleaser that brings together two favorite dishes without a lot of extra work. It is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want something comforting and fun. I hope your family loves it as much as mine does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pizza Macaroni and Cheese

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells. Just cook it according to the package directions until al dente.

2. Can I make this pizza mac and cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add about 10 minutes to the baking time.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a 350 degree oven until warmed through.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

5. What can I serve with pizza macaroni and cheese?

A simple green salad or some steamed broccoli goes great with this dish. Garlic bread is also a nice side if you want extra carbs.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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