Mac and cheese on a pizza crust? Yes—it works, and it works really well if you get the ratio just right like Cicis does!
My first tip is to use a thinner layer of cheese sauce than you think—you want creamy, not slippery.
I use a basic stovetop mac with elbow noodles and extra-sharp cheddar so the flavor doesn’t fade once it bakes.
Par-bake your crust before adding the mac—it helps keep everything from turning into a soggy mess.
Finish it with a tiny sprinkle of salt after baking—it really balances the pasta and dough together!
How to Make Cicis’ Mac and Cheese Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 package Pizza Dough
- 1 cup Elbow Macaroni
- 1 cup Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2:
Preheat your oven to 450°F.
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until it fits your pizza pan.
Step 3:
Brush the pizza dough with olive oil.
Spread the cheese sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
Step 4:
Spread the cooked macaroni evenly over the cheese sauce.
Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 5:
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 10 to 15 minutes or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
Step 6:
Remove the pizza from the oven.
Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Mozzarella
Using fresh mozzarella can make a considerable difference in the taste and texture of your pizza!
It melts more evenly and provides a creamier flavor that pairs perfectly with the macaroni and cheese.
Make Your Own Cheese Sauce
If you have the time and ingredients, making your own cheese sauce can add a personal touch to this dish.
You can experiment with different types of cheese to find the flavor combination you like most.
Adjust to Your Taste
You can personalize the seasoning by adding a pinch of garlic powder or red pepper flakes for some added flavor!
Consider other toppings like crispy bacon pieces or green onions for a little extra something.
What to Serve with CiCi’s Mac and Cheese Pizza
Roasted Broccoli
Roasted broccoli makes a fantastic side dish to serve alongside your CiCi’s Mac and Cheese Pizza.
The crispy texture and slight bitterness of the broccoli balance out the creamy and rich flavors of the pizza wonderfully.
Simply toss broccoli florets with olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes.
Glazed Carrots
Another great traditional option to pair with this pizza is glazed carrots.
The subtle sweetness of the carrots contrasts nicely with the savory and cheesy goodness of the pizza.
To prepare, simmer carrot slices in a mixture of butter, brown sugar, and a bit of orange juice until they’re tender and glossy.
Crisp Salad
A crisp salad is always a refreshing choice to serve with a cheesy dish like this pizza.
You could include a mix of lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and radishes for a varied array of textures.
Drizzle a light vinaigrette to add a tangy flavor that complements the rich cheesiness of the main dish.
Grilled Pineapple
For something a little different, consider adding grilled pineapple to the mix.
The sweet and slightly caramelized flavor of the fruit pairs surprisingly well with the savory components of the pizza.
Simply slice fresh pineapple, brush with a bit of honey, and grill until you see beautiful grill marks.
Pickled Jalapeños
Adding a spicy and tangy element can be an exciting twist to your meal.
Pickled jalapeños bring a zing that enhances the rich flavors of the Mac and Cheese Pizza.
You could either buy them or pickle fresh jalapeños at home with vinegar, sugar, and salt for a homemade touch.
Variations and Substitutions
Cheese Choices
You can switch up the cheese by using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for a little extra flavor.
If you want a bit of spice, try adding pepper jack cheese into the mix!
A sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking gives a wonderful finish.
Sauce Base
If you prefer a lighter option, use a homemade cheese sauce with low-fat milk.
For a richer taste, you can mix Velveeta with some sharp cheddar.
To give it a different twist, try using a white cheese sauce instead.
Pasta and Dough
You can try various pasta shapes like shells or penne for a different texture.
Using whole wheat pasta instead of the traditional variety adds more fiber to the dish.
Consider using a pre-made pizza dough or even a cauliflower crust for a gluten-free option.
Add-Ins
Adding cooked bacon bits or diced ham can create a nice and savory combination.
For those who enjoy heat, toss in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Experiment with adding cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach to make it hearty!
How to Store Leftover Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza
Don’t leave your pizza sitting out for too long, or it’ll lose its freshness!
Wrap each slice tightly in aluminum foil to lock in flavors and keep it moist.
You can also use airtight containers if foil isn’t handy; both will help avoid drying out.
Where to Store
Store your wrapped pizza slices in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within a few days.
You can freeze the pizza using heavy-duty freezer bags if you want to enjoy it later.
This will keep your cheesy treat ready for when you crave it next!
How Long it Lasts
Your pizza can last up to four days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Make sure to eat it promptly, so it doesn’t go to waste.
When frozen, it can last for up to two months and still taste delicious when thawed!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing the Wrong Cheese
One thing you want to watch out for is using only one type of cheese.
Mix it up! A blend of cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan adds depth.
Overcooking the Pasta
Another mistake is forgetting about the pasta and overcooking it.
You want it al dente, so it holds up better when baked on the pizza.
Using Too Much Sauce
Lastly, don’t go overboard with the sauce.
A light layer is enough to enhance flavors without making the pizza soggy.
Focusing on these little details makes all the difference!
Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 package Pizza Dough
- 1 cup Elbow Macaroni
- 1 cup Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until it fits your pizza pan.
- Brush the pizza dough with olive oil.
- Spread the cheese sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
- Spread the cooked macaroni evenly over the cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 10 to 15 minutes or until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove the pizza from the oven.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing.