Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This fusion of mac and cheese and pizza creates the ultimate comfort food mashup. The crispy, golden pizza crust acts as the perfect base for a creamy mac and cheese layer, topped with more melted cheese for a delicious pizza twist. It’s the perfect solution for those nights when you want the best of both worlds—pizza and mac and cheese. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust (store-bought works perfectly)
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil (essential for a crispy crust)
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
- 1 box of mac and cheese (or equivalent homemade)
- 3 slices American cheese (adds extra creaminess)
- ¼ cup milk (for the perfect consistency)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese (for a golden, bubbly pizza finish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Mac and Cheese
Start by cooking the mac and cheese according to the package directions. If you’re using homemade mac and cheese, prepare it as usual. Once it’s cooked, stir in the 3 slices of American cheese and ¼ cup of milk over low heat. Stir continuously until the American cheese melts completely and the mixture becomes extra creamy.
Pro tip: American cheese is what transforms regular mac and cheese into a smooth, spreadable, and ultra-creamy mixture perfect for pizza.
2. Prep the Pizza Crust
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature ensures that the pizza crust gets crispy and golden. Take your pizza crust and brush it thoroughly with olive oil—make sure to cover every inch. The oil creates a barrier to keep the crust from getting soggy when you add the mac and cheese topping.
Critical point: Don’t skip the olive oil step! It’s crucial for a crispy crust.
3. Assembly Time
Spoon the creamy mac and cheese mixture onto the oiled pizza crust. Spread it evenly, making sure to cover the crust without making the layer too thick. You want to ensure every bite gets mac and cheese, but if the layer is too thick, the center won’t heat properly.
4. Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. This topping gives the pizza its classic pizza look and helps create that golden, bubbly top. Don’t skimp on the cheese—it’s what makes the pizza visually appealing and adds that delicious cheesy finish.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 7-10 minutes, watching carefully. The cheese on top should melt completely and start to develop golden brown spots. The crust should also be crispy and golden at the edges.
6. Cool Before Cutting
Once the pizza is baked, let it cool for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This waiting period allows the mac and cheese to set up, preventing it from sliding off the crust when cut. Patience here makes all the difference!
Notes
- Temperature matters: The oven needs to be preheated to 450°F. Lower temperatures won’t crisp the crust properly.
- Oil is your friend: Brushing the pizza crust with olive oil prevents sogginess and adds extra flavor.
- Cheese selection: American cheese in the mac and cheese mix gives it the creamy, smooth texture, while the Colby Jack cheese on top creates that perfect pizza-style topping.
- Thickness control: Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly but don’t make it too thick. About ¼ to ½ inch thick is the perfect consistency.
- Cooling patience: Letting the pizza cool for a few minutes prevents a messy disaster when cutting.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Bacon Mac and Cheese Pizza: Add crispy bacon crumbles to the mac and cheese mixture for a smoky, savory twist.
- Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Pizza: Top your mac and cheese layer with shredded buffalo chicken for a spicy, tangy kick.
- Vegetarian Mac and Cheese Pizza: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes to the mac and cheese for a veggie-packed version.
- Spicy Mac and Cheese Pizza: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or some jalapeño slices for an extra heat boost.
- Gourmet Mac and Cheese Pizza: Use a blend of fancy cheeses, like Gouda, Gruyère, or Parmesan, for a rich, gourmet twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to retain the crispiness of the crust.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade mac and cheese instead of boxed?
Yes! You can use your favorite homemade mac and cheese recipe. Just make sure it’s creamy enough to spread easily on the pizza crust.
2. Can I freeze this pizza?
You can freeze the assembled, unbaked pizza for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake, just place it directly in the oven—add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. Can I make a gluten-free version?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free pizza crust and make sure your mac and cheese is also gluten-free (check the ingredients on the cheese and pasta).
4. How do I make the crust extra crispy?
Brushing the crust with olive oil and baking at 450°F ensures a crispy crust. You can also pre-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the mac and cheese topping for extra crispiness.
5. Can I add extra toppings?
Of course! Feel free to add toppings like pepperoni, sausage, or veggies to make your pizza even heartier.
Conclusion
Macaroni and Cheese Pizza is a fusion dish that’s as fun as it is delicious. With a crispy crust, creamy mac and cheese, and a bubbly cheese topping, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a quick dinner or a family night, this pizza will satisfy everyone’s cravings for something indulgent and different. Enjoy!
The Ultimate Macaroni and Cheese Pizza Guide
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Craving both pizza and mac and cheese? This Macaroni and Cheese Pizza combines two comfort food favorites into one mouthwatering dish. A crispy pizza crust topped with creamy mac and cheese and melted cheese makes for the ultimate indulgent meal. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this pizza is a game-changer for both kids and adults!
Ingredients
For the Base:
1 pre-made pizza crust (store-bought works perfectly)
2–3 tablespoons olive oil (essential for a crispy crust)
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
1 box of mac and cheese (or equivalent homemade)
3 slices American cheese (adds extra creaminess)
¼ cup milk (for the perfect consistency)
For the Topping:
1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese (for a golden, bubbly pizza finish)
Instructions
-
Prepare Your Mac and Cheese:
Cook the mac and cheese according to the package directions. Stir in the 3 slices of American cheese and ¼ cup of milk over low heat until fully melted and creamy. -
Prep the Pizza Crust:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Brush your pizza crust thoroughly with olive oil to ensure it becomes crispy and golden. -
Assemble the Pizza:
Spoon the creamy mac and cheese mixture onto the prepared pizza crust, spreading it evenly. Add shredded Colby Jack cheese on top of the mac and cheese layer. -
Bake the Pizza:
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 7-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, and the crust is crispy. -
Cool Before Cutting:
Let the pizza cool for 3-5 minutes before slicing to prevent the mac and cheese from sliding off the pizza.
Notes
Oil is Key: Brushing the pizza crust with olive oil helps avoid a soggy base and contributes to a delicious, crispy texture.
Cheese Magic: American cheese makes the mac and cheese layer creamy and spreadable, while Colby Jack creates that perfect pizza topping finish.
Temperature Matters: A high oven temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy crust and golden bubbly cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
