Description
This Easy Macaroni and Cheese Pizza combines the comforting creaminess of classic mac and cheese with the crispy, golden goodness of homemade pizza crust. Perfect for cheese lovers and family dinners, this recipe layers rich cheddar and mozzarella over a par-baked pizza dough base, topped with a smooth homemade cheese sauce and elbow macaroni. It’s a delicious twist on two favorite comfort foods, baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
Pizza Base
- 1 prepared pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Macaroni and Cheese
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 450°F and lightly grease a pizza pan or baking sheet. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness and shape, then transfer it onto the prepared pan. Par-bake the crust for 5–7 minutes until it becomes slightly firm but does not brown.
- Cook Macaroni: While the crust is par-baking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, typically around 7-8 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking the mixture until it thickens, about 4–5 minutes.
- Season and Add Cheese: Stir in garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika for flavor. Remove from heat and add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Fold the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
- Assemble the Pizza: Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the par-baked pizza crust. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Bake the Pizza: Return the assembled pizza to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese topping is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley. Slice into 8 pieces and serve warm.
Notes
- For an extra-cheesy twist, sprinkle blue cheese crumbles or use a blend of gouda and fontina cheeses.
- Add crispy bacon bits or sautéed onions on top for additional flavor.
- Ensure the macaroni is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy after baking.
- You can par-bake the crust longer if you prefer a crispier base.
