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This mouthwatering mac and cheese pizza combines two comfort food favorites into one irresistible dish. The creamy macaroni and cheese melts perfectly over a crispy crust, with three kinds of cheese and crispy bacon creating the ultimate indulgence for pasta and pizza lovers alike.
I created this recipe when trying to use up leftover mac and cheese from Sunday dinner. My picky eater nephew who normally refuses both pizza and pasta devoured three slices and now requests it every time he visits.
Ingredients
- Pizza dough: Provides the perfect canvas for this mashup. Store bought works great for busy nights or make your own for extra flavor
- Olive oil: Mixed with oregano and garlic powder creates a flavorful base that prevents the crust from getting soggy
- Macaroni and cheese: Is the star. Use leftover homemade or your favorite boxed variety for convenience
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds that classic mac and cheese flavor with a punch of tanginess
- Mozzarella cheese: Creates those perfect stretchy cheese pulls that make pizza irresistible
- Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty salt flavor that enhances both the pasta and pizza elements
- Bacon: Adds a smoky crunch that balances the creaminess of the mac and cheese. Look for thick cut for best results
- Fresh parsley: Brightens up the rich flavors and adds a pop of color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the oven:
- Heat your oven to a piping hot 450 degrees. This high temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy yet chewy pizza crust. Position your rack in the middle of the oven for even heat distribution.
- Prepare the crust:
- Roll out your dough on a lightly floured surface until it reaches your desired thickness. Transfer to a pizza pan that has been dusted with cornmeal to prevent sticking and add a pleasant texture to the bottom of your crust.
- Create the flavor base:
- Mix olive oil with dried oregano and garlic powder in a small bowl. This aromatic blend will soak into the crust and provide a flavorful foundation for your mac and cheese topping. Spread this mixture evenly across the dough surface, making sure to reach all the way to the edges.
- Pre bake the crust:
- Place your prepared crust in the oven and bake for about 5 to 8 minutes. You want it to just begin showing spots of golden brown and for most of the olive oil to be absorbed. This partial baking ensures your crust will still be crispy under the weight of the mac and cheese.
- Prepare the mac and cheese topping:
- While the crust is pre baking, combine all your shredded cheeses in a bowl. Take about half of this cheese mixture and stir it into your macaroni and cheese to make it extra cheesy and help it melt evenly on the pizza.
- Add the mac and cheese layer:
- Carefully spread your enhanced mac and cheese in an even layer across the partially baked crust. Try to distribute it evenly but leave a small border around the edge for a proper crust.
- Add cheese and seasonings:
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese mixture over the macaroni and cheese layer. Add a light pinch of kosher salt and a generous crack of fresh black pepper to enhance all the flavors.
- First baking stage:
- Return the pizza to the oven and bake for about 5 minutes, just until the cheese begins to melt but isn’t fully browned.
- Add the bacon:
- Take the pizza out briefly and sprinkle the crumbled bacon pieces evenly across the surface. This two stage approach keeps the bacon crispy rather than allowing it to sink into the cheese.
- Final baking:
- Return the pizza to the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes. Look for the edges of the crust to turn a dark golden brown and the cheese to be fully melted and starting to bubble.
- Garnish and serve:
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan if desired. Let cool for just a minute before slicing to allow the cheese to set slightly.
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This pizza was born during a particularly busy sports season when my kids had practices every night. I discovered that leftover mac and cheese from the weekend created the perfect quick meal that satisfied everyone. The bacon was originally added because my husband insisted every pizza needs a meat topping, but it turned out to be the perfect flavor complement.
Make Ahead Options
This mac and cheese pizza works wonderfully as a make ahead meal for busy weeknights. You can prepare several elements in advance to streamline the cooking process when you're ready to enjoy. Prepare your mac and cheese up to two days before and store it in the refrigerator. The dough can be made or purchased ahead of time and kept refrigerated until needed. You can even pre bake the crust in the morning, cover it tightly, and finish the pizza at dinner time. This preparation makes it an ideal option for hectic evenings when you need a satisfying meal without extensive kitchen time.
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Creative Variations
The beauty of this mac and cheese pizza lies in its adaptability. For a spicy version, stir buffalo sauce into the mac and cheese and top with blue cheese crumbles. Vegetable lovers can add roasted broccoli, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms between the mac and cheese and cheese topping. For meat enthusiasts, consider adding sliced pepperoni, grilled chicken, or Italian sausage alongside the bacon. A breakfast variation works wonderfully with a fried egg placed on top right after baking. Each variation maintains the comfort food essence while allowing you to customize based on preferences or ingredients you have available.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pizza pairs beautifully with lighter side dishes to create a balanced meal. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cheese and provides a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus offer nutritional balance while complementing the savory flavors. For a casual gathering, serve small slices as an appetizer alongside other fun finger foods. This pizza also makes an excellent main dish for movie nights or game days when comfort food is the priority. The leftovers retain their flavor wonderfully and can be reheated in a skillet for a crispy crust or enjoyed cold for a quick lunch the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use store-bought mac and cheese for this pizza?
Yes, you can use store-bought macaroni and cheese as a time-saving option. Just ensure it's not too runny - a thicker, creamier mac and cheese works best to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
- → What can I substitute for bacon in this dish?
For alternatives to bacon, try cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, ham, pepperoni, or for vegetarian options, use plant-based bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or crispy onions for that savory crunch.
- → Can I freeze leftover macaroni and cheese pizza?
Yes, you can freeze leftover slices. Cool completely, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through for best texture.
- → How can I make sure the crust doesn't get soggy?
Pre-bake the crust for 5-8 minutes before adding toppings, and make sure your macaroni and cheese isn't too watery. The initial bake creates a barrier that helps keep the crust crispy even with creamy toppings.
- → What side dishes pair well with this pizza?
Balance this rich pizza with lighter sides like a simple green salad with vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or buffalo wings. For drinks, try beer, soda, or a light white wine.
- → Can I make this in advance for a party?
You can prepare components ahead of time - pre-bake the crust and make the mac and cheese a day before. Assemble and complete the final bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.