Macaroni "N" Cheese Pizza
A cheesy, savory pizza with macaroni, ground beef, and vegetables, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions; drain.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs; stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese and cooked macaroni.
- Spread the macaroni mixture onto a 14-inch pizza pan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a skillet, cook ground beef with chopped onion until beef is browned and onions are tender.
- Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Spread pizza sauce over the baked macaroni crust.
- Top with cooked ground beef and chopped mushrooms.
- Add slices of pepperoni on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream into the macaroni mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions. Don't forget to season the ground beef with Italian spices for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Macaroni 'N' Cheese Pizza with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Hearty Corned Beef Salad for a fulfilling meal. For a fun twist, you could offer additional toppings like jalapeños or diced bell peppers on the side to let guests customize their slices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni "N" Cheese Pizza contains roughly 926 calories, with 38g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (76% of the Daily Value), calcium (75% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1245mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni crust and toppings ahead of time. Assemble everything and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This can save time on busy nights and make it easier to serve fresh pizza when you need it.
What can I substitute for the pizza sauce?
If you don't have pizza sauce, marinara or spaghetti sauce can work as a substitute. You could also use a homemade tomato sauce seasoned with herbs like oregano and basil for a fresher taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference to enhance the flavors.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the ground beef mixture. It will not only enhance the flavor but also increase the nutritional value. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding them to the pizza.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).