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Pizza Mac and Cheese

Easy Baked Pizza Mac and Cheese Recipe

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 640
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 3 oz pepperoni slices, divided
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and butter a 2-quart baking dish. Boil the pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente, about 6 to 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Melt the butter in the same pot, whisk in the flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and seasonings, then simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups mozzarella and the parmesan until smooth.
  3. Add the drained pasta and marinara to the cheese sauce, folding until combined. Stir in about three-quarters of the pepperoni, tearing some slices as you go.
  4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spread it evenly, and top with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella and the reserved pepperoni slices.
  5. Bake until bubbly and golden on top, 20 to 25 minutes. Broil for an extra 2 minutes for a crispier top if you like. Let it rest 5 minutes, then serve hot.

Notes

For the creamiest sauce, use cheese you shred yourself. The resting time after baking helps the dish hold its shape when you scoop it, so don’t skip those few minutes.