This Cheesy Pizza Mac and Cheese brings together two favorites! Creamy macaroni is smothered in gooey cheese and loaded with pepperoni to make a fun and tasty dish.
Honestly, it feels like a pizza party in a bowl! I sometimes add some veggies to sneak in a bit of healthy. Kids and adults both love this cheesy delight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: A classic for mac and cheese! You could substitute with any pasta shape you have—penne or fusilli work well too. Just make sure it’s a pasta that can hold onto that cheesy sauce!
Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar create that perfect cheesy pull! If you’re in a pinch, you might use Monterey Jack or a pre-shredded blend. Just avoid low-fat cheese, it won’t melt the same!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought pizza sauce is great for flavor! If you’re making your own, a simple blend of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs works perfectly too. You can also use pesto for a fun twist.
Pepperoni: If you don’t eat meat, try using sliced olives or mushrooms instead for a tasty vegetarian option. You could also use turkey pepperoni for a lighter choice.
How Can I Get the Best Cheese Sauce Consistency?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce is essential for a creamy mac and cheese. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start by melting your butter carefully—not too hot, or it will brown.
- When you whisk in the flour, make sure it forms a nice paste, or roux. Cook it for 1-2 minutes without burning it to develop flavor.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and keep stirring until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes. If it’s lumpy, keep whisking!
- Remove from heat before adding cheese so it melts evenly without getting rubbery. Stir in cheese until it’s completely smooth.
With these tips, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta!
Cheesy Pizza Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Mac and Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Sauce and Toppings:
- 1 cup marinara sauce (pizza sauce)
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare, and you’ll need an additional 15-20 minutes to bake it in the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes for a wonderfully cheesy and filling meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until it’s al dente (cooked but not too soft). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later!
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes. This mixture will become your roux, which thickens the sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk and keep stirring until the mixture thickens – this will take about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the Cheeses and Seasonings:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, and marinara sauce. If you like a little kick, add in the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is nice and smooth.
4. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked macaroni and half of the sliced pepperoni to the cheese sauce. Gently stir to combine everything, making sure every piece of pasta is coated in that cheesy goodness!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Top the mixture with the remaining pepperoni slices, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake it uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until everything is bubbly and lightly browned on top.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, allow it to cool for a minute or two. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you’d like, then serve it hot. Dig in and enjoy your cheesy pizza-inspired comfort food!
FAQ for Cheesy Pizza Mac and Cheese
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta can have different cooking times.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To keep this dish vegetarian, simply omit the pepperoni and replace it with your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add sliced olives for extra flavor!
Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
