Pizza Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Fusion
This easy Pizza Mac and Cheese recipe combines the best of two comfort food classics in one cheesy, oven-baked dish! Loaded with gooey mozzarella, tangy pizza sauce, and classic toppings like pepperoni and olives, it’s the ultimate kid-friendly dinner that’s quick, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- Large Pot: For boiling the macaroni until al dente.
- Saucepan: To make the creamy, melty cheese sauce that binds the dish.
- Casserole Dish (9x13): Essential for layering and baking the mac and cheese to bubbly perfection.
- Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives you the best texture and flavor.
- Silicone Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Ideal for mixing the sauce, folding ingredients, and scraping every last bit of cheesy goodness.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient portions, especially for sauce and seasoning.
- Oven Mitts: To safely transfer the hot casserole dish to and from the oven.
- Wire Cooling Rack (Optional): Helps the baked dish rest evenly and prevents overcooking after baking.
Ingredients
- 2 Cups Macaroni (uncooked elbow macaroni)
- 3 Tbsp Butter
- 3 Tbsp All-purpose flour
- 2 Cups Milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 Cup Heavy cream
- 2 Cups Shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 Cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 Cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 Cup Pizza sauce
- 1 Cup Pepperoni, sliced
- 1/2 Cup Green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 Cup Black olives, sliced
- 1 Tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 Tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it’s golden and bubbly.Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine with Pizza Sauce:Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) into the cheese sauce. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Mix the Pasta:Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated with the cheesy pizza mixture.
- Add Toppings:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish. Evenly distribute the pepperoni slices, diced bell pepper, and sliced black olives on top.
- Bake:Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
🧊 How to Store It:
-
Refrigerator:
Let the dish cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. -
Freezer:
Want to freeze it? Absolutely! Slice into portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months.
🔥 How to Reheat It:
-
Microwave (Individual Portions):
Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of milk or water to loosen it up, then cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through. -
Oven (Best for Crispiness):
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake for 15–20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. For a crispy top, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes. -
From Frozen:
Thaw overnight in the fridge if possible. Otherwise, bake straight from frozen at 375°F for about 45–60 minutes, covered with foil. Remove foil for the final 10 minutes to crisp it up.
✨ Bonus Tip: Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese or herbs on top before reheating to revive the flavor and make it taste just-baked!