pizza mac n cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best pizza mac n cheese recipe

This pizza mac n cheese recipe is one of my absolute favorites. It combines two things my family loves: pizza and macaroni and cheese. It is a hearty, comforting dish that comes together easily for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal. My kids get so excited when they see this on the table, and I love that I can sneak in some extra veggies like diced bell peppers or spinach without anyone complaining. It is also a great way to use up leftover pizza toppings or cheese. While it is definitely a comfort food, using whole wheat pasta and low fat cheese can make it a bit healthier. It is a balanced meal that gives you carbs for energy, protein for staying full, and calcium from all that cheese. I always feel good serving this because everyone is happy and full.

Pizza Mac n Cheese

4.6 from 1773 votes

A creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese loaded with classic pizza toppings like pepperoni, mozzarella, and tomato sauce. This baked casserole is a fun twist on two family favorites and is perfect for a quick dinner or a potluck.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 pound elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon salt for pasta water

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Pizza Toppings

1 cup pizza sauce
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/2 cup diced cooked Italian sausage (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4Gradually whisk in the milk. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
5Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar cheese until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat everything evenly.
7Pour half of the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread the pizza sauce over the top. Then sprinkle with half of the pepperoni, bell pepper, olives, and sausage if using.
8Add the remaining mac and cheese on top, spreading it evenly. Top with the rest of the pepperoni and other toppings.
9Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

You can use any pasta shape you have on hand. For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta and low fat cheese. Feel free to add any of your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, onions, or cooked ground beef.

Watch Video Of How Pizza Mac n Cheese Works

This pizza mac n cheese recipe is always a hit in my house and is perfect for any occasion from casual weeknight dinners to family gatherings. It is easy to customize with your favorite toppings and always satisfies a crowd. I hope your family loves it as much as mine does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pizza Mac n Cheese

1. Can I make this pizza mac n cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole completely, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

2. Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely. Bake the casserole, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350 degree oven until warmed through.

3. What are some good substitutions for the pepperoni?

You can use cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, diced ham, or even shredded cooked chicken. For a vegetarian version, load it up with extra veggies like mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Sure. Provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses work great. Just avoid using only pre shredded cheese as it often has anti caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

5. How do I make the sauce creamier?

Make sure you cook the flour and butter mixture for a full minute to remove the raw flour taste. Also, use whole milk for the best creamy texture. You can add a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra richness.

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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