Pizza Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food fusion. This dish combines the gooey, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the savory, tangy flavors of pepperoni pizza. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With its vibrant mix of mozzarella, cheddar, pepperoni, bell peppers, and tomato sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, quartered
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup tomato sauce or marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions
1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, quartered pepperoni slices, diced bell peppers, tomato sauce, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Kcal per Serving
520 kcal
Tips
• Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, fontina, or provolone can add unique flavors.
• Veggie Add-ins: Add other vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Crispy Topping: Sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy texture.
Benefits
• Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of pizza make this dish a hit with kids.
• Versatile: This recipe is easily adaptable to include your favorite pizza toppings.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 40 minutes.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Q: Can I use whole wheat pasta?
A: Absolutely! Whole wheat or any other type of pasta can be used to add more fiber and nutrients to the dish.
Q: What can I use instead of pepperoni?
A: You can use cooked sausage, bacon, or even a vegetarian alternative like chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives.
Conclusion
Pizza Macaroni and Cheese is a delightful and innovative twist on two beloved comfort foods. With its rich, cheesy flavor and satisfying mix of ingredients, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. This dish not only tastes incredible but also offers versatility and ease, making it an excellent addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy this recipe on a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleasing potluck dish!