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This macaroni and cheese pizza is the go-to recipe whenever my family craves both comfort and novelty in a single dinner. Imagine a crispy pizza crust loaded with creamy macaroni and cheese then finished with a melty blanket of extra cheese. If your household debates between pasta or pizza night this recipe ends all arguments.
I whipped this up on a busy sports night when we only had boxed mac and cheese in the fridge and a sad old pizza crust. My kids still talk about that “best-ever” dinner.
Ingredients
- Macaroni and cheese: You can use homemade for extra flavor or boxed for convenience. Creaminess is key so pick a variety with plenty of sauce
- American cheese: Slices melt smoothly and make the sauce super velvety
- Milk: Keeps everything creamy and prevents the macaroni from drying out while baking
- Premade pizza crust: Perfect for a speedy meal. Check for a crust that feels firm but not too dense
- Olive oil: Brushed on the crust for a golden crispy edge. Go for extra virgin for rich flavor
- Shredded colby jack cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a beautiful cheesy stretch
- Optional add ins: Bacon bits for smokiness diced jalapeños for heat chopped green onions for color and zing
Tip
If you use homemade macaroni choose a sharp cheddar sauce for max flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Macaroni and Cheese:
- Cook boxed macaroni and cheese according to package directions or combine freshly boiled elbow macaroni with your favorite cheese sauce. Stir in the American cheese slices and milk over low heat until everything is completely melty and smooth.
- Brush the Pizza Crust:
- Place the premade pizza crust on your baking tray or pizza stone. Use a pastry brush to cover the entire surface with olive oil reaching all the way to the edges. This step is your ticket to a crisp and browned base.
- Spread the Macaroni Mixture:
- Transfer the creamy macaroni and cheese onto the crust. Gently spread it to the outer edge creating an even layer but do not press it down too firmly or you will compact the noodles.
- Top with Shredded Cheese:
- Evenly sprinkle the shredded colby jack over the top. This helps bind everything together and gives that bubbly cheesy finish that makes this pizza irresistibly photogenic.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Slide the pizza into a 450 degree oven. Bake for 7 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and spotted with light golden brown patches. Let it cool for 2 to 3 minutes before slicing so the toppings set just enough.
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My favorite part is always the melty cheese edges where the macaroni meets pizza crust. I remember my son helping sprinkle the extra cheese and being so proud of the gooey results that he begged for seconds.
Storage Tips
Leftover pizza keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or skillet so the crust remains crispy. Avoid the microwave if possible since it can make the base soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have American cheese try using cream cheese or even a bit of Velveeta. Any melty cheese will work for the topping such as mozzarella cheddar or a Mexican blend. Gluten free pizza crust and pasta swap in seamlessly for a gluten free meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pizza piping hot with a side salad for freshness. Try a crisp romaine salad or simple tomato slices dressed with olive oil to balance all the cheesiness. This pizza pairs nicely with sparkling water or lemonade for a fun family meal.
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Cultural Context
Macaroni and cheese pizza first popped up in quirky American pizzerias known for wild toppings. Fans of comfort food or creative fusion dinners will appreciate how this dish brings together traditions from both Italy and the USA kitchen style mashed together in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use homemade macaroni and cheese?
Yes! Homemade macaroni and cheese brings a rich, custom flavor, but boxed versions also work well for convenience.
- → What can I use instead of American cheese?
Feel free to substitute with cheddar, mozzarella, or any melting cheese you prefer for your pizza.
- → How do I prevent the pizza from getting soggy?
Brushing the crust with olive oil helps prevent sogginess and creates a crisp, golden base for your toppings.
- → Are there kid-friendly variations?
Kids enjoy classic macaroni and cheese pizza, but you can add bacon bits or keep it simple by skipping spicy toppings.
- → Can this be made in advance?
Prepare macaroni ahead and assemble the pizza just before baking for best texture and flavor.
- → What are good topping ideas?
Try chopped green onions, crisp bacon bits, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor and color.