Description
This Pizza Macaroni and Cheese recipe combines the comforting creaminess of classic mac and cheese with the bold flavors of pizza. Loaded with mozzarella, cheddar, pepperoni, and a tangy pizza sauce, it’s baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection – a perfect meal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the macaroni and cheese.
- Cook the macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain thoroughly.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked macaroni along with pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, pepperoni slices, olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything well until evenly combined.
- Transfer to baking dish: Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour the macaroni mixture into it and spread evenly.
- Add Parmesan topping: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the macaroni mixture to create a flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
- Cool slightly and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the dish to set and enhance flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute pepperoni with your favorite pizza toppings such as cooked sausage, mushrooms, or olives.
- For extra cheesiness, add a layer of shredded mozzarella on top before baking.
- Use whole wheat macaroni to increase fiber content.
- Letting the dish rest after baking helps it hold together better when serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat thoroughly before eating.
