Pizza Macaroni and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pizza Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate fusion dish, blending the comfort of mac and cheese with the deliciousness of pizza. It features creamy cheeses, pepperoni, veggies, and a zesty seasoning blend, making every bite a perfect combination of flavors. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner or a fun dish for the whole family, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Ingredients

• 16 oz elbow macaroni

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups milk

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

• 1 package (8 oz) sliced pepperoni

• ½ cup black olives, sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, milk, diced tomatoes, pepperoni, black olives, bell pepper, onion, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.

4. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture evenly into the dish.

5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the pepperoni and use mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers instead.

• Meat Lovers’: Add cooked Italian sausage, bacon, or ground beef along with the pepperoni.

• Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

• Gluten-Free/Dairy-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and plant-based cheese and milk options.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

To reheat, avoid the microwave if possible. Instead, cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes. Add a splash of milk to keep the dish creamy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use penne, shells, or any pasta that holds cheese sauce well.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature, then bake as directed.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, simply omit the pepperoni and add more vegetables for a vegetarian version.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven.

5. How do I prevent the cheese from separating when reheating?

Reheat the dish slowly in the oven, and add a little milk to keep the cheese smooth and creamy.

6. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly shredded cheese melts better, but pre-shredded cheese can be used if you're short on time.

7. Can I add more toppings to the dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach or even pepperoni slices for a more pizza-like experience.

8. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes to bring the heat.

9. Can I make this dish without milk?

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk.

10. What should I serve with Pizza Mac and Cheese?

It pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Pizza Macaroni and Cheese is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. Combining two fan favorites, it’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with all the delicious pizza toppings you love. Customize it to suit your tastes and enjoy a hearty, easy-to-make meal that's sure to please everyone at the table.

Print

Pizza Macaroni and Cheese

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Pizza Macaroni and Cheese is a creative twist on two classic comfort foods, combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the bold, savory flavors of pizza. Featuring mozzarella, cheddar, pepperoni, olives, and bell peppers, this hearty dish is perfect for the whole family. Whether you're craving a cozy dinner or a fun family meal, Pizza Mac and Cheese delivers the best of both worlds in one delicious bite!

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings
• Category: Dinner, Comfort Food, Family Meals
• Method: Baking, Stovetop
• Cuisine: American, Italian Fusion
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

16 oz elbow macaroni

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups milk

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1 package (8 oz) sliced pepperoni

½ cup black olives, sliced

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 small onion, diced

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, milk, diced tomatoes, pepperoni, black olives, bell pepper, onion, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.

• Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture evenly into the dish.

• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Notes

• This recipe can easily be adapted to vegetarian, meat-lover, or spicy versions by adjusting the toppings and seasonings.

• For a dairy-free or gluten-free version, swap out milk, cheese, and pasta for plant-based or gluten-free alternatives.

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.