Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese

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Imagine if pepperoni pizza and mac & cheese had a baby-this would be it! This Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese recipe is packed with gooey cheese, savory sauce, and crispy pepperoni. It's cozy, satisfying, and kid-approved, making it a total weeknight winner. Whether you're feeding a crowd or sneaking a few bites straight from the pan (guilty), this dish brings big flavor without the fuss.

heesy pasta dish on a plate with fork and napkin underneath.

This is a comfort classic that hits the spot any time of year, but it's especially perfect during cooler months or game day weekends when you want something warm, cheesy, and filling. It's a guaranteed hit at family dinners, potlucks, or Friday nights at home.

This recipe was inspired by my Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Macaroni-another cozy, melty pasta dish where cheese, pasta, and savory flavors come together with minimal effort. For dessert, end the meal on a sweet and refreshing note with my Pineapple Dream Dessert-a creamy no‑bake treat that's light, fruity, and easy to prep.

Ingredients

Pasta in a serving dish topped with shredded cheese.

Elbow macaroni holds the cheesy sauce perfectly and keeps its shape after baking.
Butter adds richness and helps form a creamy roux.
Garlic adds a subtle savory flavor that deepens the sauce.
All-purpose flour thickens the sauce into a smooth and creamy base.
Whole milk creates a silky foundation for the cheese sauce.
Heavy cream adds extra richness and a velvety texture.
Pasta sauce gives the dish a classic tomato-pizza flavor.
Dried oregano adds a warm, herby note that tastes like pizza night.
Dried basil gives a slightly sweet, earthy flavor that complements the cheese.
Salt and black pepper enhance and balance all the flavors.
Mozzarella cheese melts into gooey, stretchy layers just like on pizza.
Parmesan cheese adds sharp, nutty flavor and helps crisp the topping.
Pepperoni slices bring bold, spicy flavor to complete the pizza vibe.

See recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese

Pouring garlic powder and herbs into the sauce mixture in a large pot.

Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain it well. Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.

A flour being added in to the simmering pot of tomato cream sauce.

Stir in the flour and keep stirring until it turns golden brown and forms a roux.

Measuring spoon with milk being added to the pot.

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream.

Cheese powder being added to sauce in a large pot.

Add the oregano, basil, pasta sauce, and some salt and pepper. Stir until the sauce thickens.

Mix in half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and combined.

Add the pepperoni and cooked pasta, then toss everything together so it's evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan on top.

Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Hint: If you like crispy pepperoni on top, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes-but keep an eye on it so it doesn't burn!

Substitutions & Variations

Gluten-Free - Swap in gluten-free pasta to make this a cozy, cheesy gluten-free treat.
Vegetarian - Use meatless pepperoni or just skip it altogether and enjoy a rich, cheesy mac.
Extra Deluxe - Stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a handful of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Kid-Approved - Toss some mini pepperonis or top it with fun cheese shapes before baking.

💭Crucial Success Tips

Don't rush the roux! Let the flour cook long enough to remove that raw taste-it makes all the difference in a smooth, flavorful sauce. And always grate your cheese fresh if you can-pre-shredded tends to be less melty.

FAQ

How do I keep the cheese from becoming grainy?

Avoid high heat after adding cheese-remove the skillet from the burner once you stir it in, and let it melt gently with the residual heat.

Can I freeze this mac and cheese?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Just cool completely, wrap tightly, and reheat in the oven until bubbly.

📖 Recipe

Tina

Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese

A cheesy, baked pasta dish that blends the flavors of pepperoni pizza and creamy mac and cheese into one easy, family-approved meal.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

1 lb penne pasta
3 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoon flour
2 teaspoon minced garlic
1 cup milk
½ cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup pasta sauce
½ teaspoon basil
½ teaspoon oregano
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup pepperoni cut in half
salt and pepper to taste

Method

Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain it well.
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
Stir in the flour and keep stirring until it turns golden brown and forms a roux.
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream.
Add the oregano, basil, pasta sauce, and some salt and pepper. Stir until the sauce thickens.
Mix in half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and combined.
Add the pepperoni and cooked pasta, then toss everything together so it's evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan on top.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How to Store Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If freezing, divide into single-serve portions before wrapping tightly-reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.