Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese

This Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese is what happens when two family favorites collide! Creamy, cheesy macaroni meets bold, zesty pepperoni and pizza-inspired flavors for a fun and satisfying dinner that’s impossible to resist. It’s quick to make, kid-approved, and loaded with melty cheese and Italian flair.

The first time I made Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese, I was trying to settle a dinner debate between pizza night and mac and cheese. So I just combined them—and it was magic! My husband devoured it like it was game day, and my daughter said it tasted like “pizza and cheese heaven.” Now it’s a go-to recipe for movie nights and easy weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese

• Creamy, Cheesy, and Bold

• Tastes Like Pizza in Pasta Form

•Quick & Easy – ready in under 30 minutes

• Perfect for Kids, Teens, and Grown-Ups Alike

Ingredients Notes For Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese

•Macaroni or Elbow Pasta: Classic base for creamy mac and cheese

•Butter & Flour: For the roux to build a velvety cheese sauce

•Milk or Half-and-Half: Makes the sauce smooth and creamy

• Mozzarella & Cheddar Cheese: Perfect melty combo

• Mini Pepperoni or Chopped Pepperoni: Adds bold, pizza flavor

•Pizza Sauce or Marinara: Swirled into the sauce for that iconic pizza taste

•Italian Seasoning & Garlic Powder: Boost the flavor like your favorite slice

Recipe Steps

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large pot, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk, whisking until smooth and thickened.

3. Add Cheese & Sauce: Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, pizza sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until melted and creamy.

4. Stir in Pasta & Pepperoni: Add cooked pasta and half the pepperoni. Stir to coat everything in the cheesy sauce.

5. Optional Bake: Pour into a baking dish, top with extra cheese and pepperoni. Broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

6. Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil or red pepper flakes if desired.

Storage Options

•Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days

•Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess

Variations & Substitutions

•Add Veggies: Bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms

•Make It Spicy: Use spicy pepperoni or add red chili flakes

•Cheese Swap: Try provolone or parmesan for extra flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boxed mac and cheese? Sure! Just mix in the pizza sauce, pepperoni, and seasonings for a shortcut version.

Does it reheat well? Yes—add a splash of milk and heat gently to keep it creamy.

Can I make it ahead? Absolutely. Assemble it up to 1 day ahead and reheat or bake when ready.

This Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and everything you love about pizza—loaded into a bowl of pasta. The ultimate crowd-pleasing comfort food! 🍕🧀🍝

Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese

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Course: Main Course

Kitchen: American, Kid-Friendly

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

 

1x2x3x

• ▢ 12 oz 0.75 lbs elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
• ▢ 2 tablespoons butter
• ▢ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ▢ 2 cups 1 lb whole milk
• ▢ 1 cup 0.5 lbs marinara or pizza sauce
• ▢ 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ▢ ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ Salt and pepper to taste
• ▢ 1 ½ cups 0.75 lbs shredded mozzarella cheese
• ▢ 1 cup 0.5 lbs shredded cheddar cheese
• ▢ ½ cup 0.25 lbs grated Parmesan cheese
• ▢ ¾ cup 0.4 lbs mini pepperoni slices or chopped pepperoni
• ▢ ¼ cup 0.12 lbs sliced black olives (optional)
• ▢ Chopped parsley or basil for garnish optional

Instructions

• Cook the Pasta:
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside.
• Make the Sauce:
• In a large saucepan or deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
• Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened (3–5 minutes).
• Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Reduce heat to low and stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
• Combine and Add Toppings:
• Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to coat completely.
• Stir in half of the pepperoni and olives (if using).
• Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish (optional for baking) or keep it in the pan.
• Top and Bake (Optional):
• Sprinkle the remaining cheese and pepperoni on top.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
• Skip this step if serving straight from the stovetop.
• Serve:
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot!