Epic Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese

Forget choosing between your two favorite comfort foods! This Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese brings together the best of both worlds in one incredibly satisfying dish. Loaded with all the classic toppings of a supreme pizza pie and enveloped in a rich, creamy macaroni and cheese, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds!

Are you ready to elevate your comfort food game to legendary status? We’re talking about a dish so profoundly satisfying, so utterly delicious, it transcends the ordinary. If your heart beats faster at the mention of a piping hot, cheesy pizza, and your soul craves the creamy indulgence of classic macaroni and cheese, then you’ve arrived at the culinary crossroads of your dreams. Today, we’re unleashing the masterpiece that is Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese – a harmonious blend designed to thrill every comfort food enthusiast.

Often, we reserve such indulgent treats for special occasions. But what if every meal could feel like a celebration? This recipe isn’t just about combining two popular dishes; it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience. Imagine the savory Italian sausage, crisp pepperoni, vibrant bell peppers, and zesty marinara sauce, all perfectly married with a decadent, multi-cheese mac and cheese. It’s a bold statement, a culinary adventure, and undeniably, your new favorite way to enjoy both pizza and pasta.

Contents

Why You’ll Love This Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese Recipe

This isn’t just another mac and cheese recipe; it’s a game-changer. Here’s why this Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:

Unbeatable Flavor Fusion: Experience the iconic taste of supreme pizza, complete with savory meats and fresh vegetables, perfectly integrated into a rich, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish. It’s a symphony of flavors that genuinely satisfies both pizza and mac and cheese cravings.
The Ultimate Comfort Food: When the cooler weather hits, or you simply need a heartwarming meal, this dish delivers. It’s hearty, fulfilling, and brings that nostalgic warmth only true comfort food can provide.
Perfect for Family Dinners & Gatherings: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, this baked pasta is a crowd-plepleaser. It’s substantial enough to feed a hungry family and impressive enough to serve guests.
Customizable & Versatile: While we highlight the “supreme” toppings, the base recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings or swap out cheeses to create your unique twist.
A Fun Twist on Pizza Night: Tired of the same old Friday night pizza delivery? This recipe offers an exciting and delicious alternative, bringing all the beloved pizza flavors to your table in a comforting casserole format.
Rich and Creamy Indulgence: With a luscious three-cheese sauce featuring Fontina, Mozzarella, and Parmesan, every spoonful is a velvety dream. The cheeses melt together seamlessly, creating a smooth and irresistible texture that coats every piece of pasta and topping.

Key Ingredients for Your Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese

Crafting this magnificent dish requires a blend of classic mac and cheese staples and supreme pizza essentials. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor that make this recipe truly special. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

Pasta Shells: Or your preferred pasta shape like elbows, penne, or rotini. The nooks and crannies of shells are perfect for cradling that cheesy sauce and delicious toppings.
Sweet Italian Sausage: The savory backbone of our meat toppings. Provides a wonderful depth of flavor.
Red Onion: Adds a sharp, slightly sweet aromatic note.
Green Bell Pepper: Contributes a fresh, slightly bitter crunch and vibrant color.
Red Bell Pepper: Offers a sweeter profile and another pop of color.
Garlic: Essential for aromatic depth in both the veggie sauté and the cheese sauce.
Butter & All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for our classic roux, creating a thick, smooth sauce.
Whole Milk & Heavy Whipping Cream: The liquid base for an incredibly rich and creamy cheese sauce.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings all the quintessential Italian-American flavors.
Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To season the dish to perfection.
Marinara Sauce: Adds that undeniable pizza tang and a beautiful crimson hue to the cheese sauce.
Fontina Cheese: Known for its exceptional melting quality and nutty, buttery flavor, it’s a star in the cheese sauce.
Mozzarella Cheese: For that classic stretch and mild, milky flavor that screams pizza.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami punch and a beautiful golden crust when baked.
Pepperoni Slices: The iconic pizza topping, delivering a spicy, savory kick.
Fresh Basil (optional): For a final flourish of fresh, aromatic flavor and a touch of elegance.

The indulgent mac and cheese base is truly a masterpiece, featuring a harmonious blend of Fontina, Mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. This trio creates an ultra-creamy, melty texture and a complex cheesy flavor that perfectly complements the robust pizza toppings. We then load it with succulent Italian sausage, zesty pepperoni, vibrant red and green bell peppers, fragrant red onion, and a rich marinara sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with incredible taste and satisfying textures.

Step-By-Step Instructions for Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese

Creating this magnificent Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese is an enjoyable process. Follow these detailed steps to bring this ultimate comfort food to life in your kitchen:

Prepare Your Workspace and Pasta: Begin by preheating your oven to a comforting 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 13×9 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside. Next, cook your pasta shells (or preferred shape) in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions, aiming for al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside to cool slightly, preventing it from overcooking later.
Sauté the Vegetables and Sausage: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped red onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, then add the sweet Italian sausage (removed from casings) to the other side. Break up the sausage with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink, which should take approximately 4 minutes. Stir the sausage and vegetables together, then add the minced garlic and continue to cook for just one more minute until the garlic is fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat and set the mixture aside.
Craft the Irresistibly Cheesy Sauce: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbling, whisk in the all-purpose flour. Cook this roux for about one minute, stirring constantly, until it forms a pale paste. Gradually, and while continuously whisking, pour in the whole milk and heavy whipping cream. This slow addition helps prevent lumps. Stir in the Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for about 6 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully. Now, reduce the heat to low and stir in the marinara sauce, 3 ½ cups of grated Fontina cheese, and 2 cups of grated mozzarella cheese. Mix until all the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and luxurious.
Combine and Bake to Golden Perfection: Gently fold the cooled, cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Add the cooked Italian sausage and vegetable mixture, along with the pepperoni slices. Stir everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated in the rich, cheesy sauce. Pour the entire mixture into your prepared 13×9 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Fontina cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Transfer the dish to your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is bubbly around the edges and the top is golden brown and irresistible.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese from the oven. If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped basil for a burst of fresh flavor and color. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving immediately. Get ready to indulge in a dish that perfectly marries two of the world’s most beloved comfort foods!

The result? An ultra-creamy, incredibly cheesy, and utterly delicious flavor bomb! It’s the perfect marriage of two beloved classics, creating a comfort food dish that will be adored by the whole family. Prepare for ooey-gooey goodness with every forkful. Indulge! You absolutely deserve this culinary delight!

We love hearing from you! If you give this recipe a try, please share your thoughts. And if any questions pop up as you’re cooking, don’t hesitate to drop a comment below. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Cook’s Notes & Expert Tips for Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese

Achieving the perfect Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese is easy with a few insider tips and tricks. These notes will help you customize the recipe and ensure a delicious outcome every time:

Sausage Selection: We’ve opted for a mild Italian sausage in this recipe, which offers a balanced savory flavor without too much heat. However, if you’re a fan of a spicy kick, feel free to substitute with hot Italian sausage. For a lighter option, you could also use turkey or chicken Italian sausage, adjusting cooking times as needed.
Marinara Sauce Matters: The quality of your marinara sauce significantly impacts the overall flavor. While any good jarred marinara will work beautifully, consider using your favorite brand. A roasted garlic marinara, as mentioned in the original notes, or one with a touch of basil and oregano, can add extra layers of complexity. You could even use homemade marinara if you have it on hand!
Onion Varieties: Red onion lends a lovely color and a slightly sharper, more piquant flavor that stands up well to the other ingredients. If red onion isn’t to your liking or readily available, yellow onion is a perfectly acceptable substitute and will still contribute a sweet aromatic base to your dish.
Pasta Shape Flexibility: While pasta shells are excellent for catching all that rich sauce and small bits of topping, don’t feel limited. Elbow macaroni, penne, rotini, or even cavatappi would work wonderfully. Choose a shape that holds the sauce well and provides good texture.
Cheese Customization: The Fontina, Mozzarella, and Parmesan blend is fantastic for its creamy melt and balanced flavor. For an extra sharp kick, consider adding a bit of provolone or even a touch of smoked gouda for a deeper, smoky note. Always grate your cheese fresh from the block for the best melting consistency and flavor.
Extra Toppings for “Supreme” Status: To truly maximize the “supreme” experience, consider adding other classic pizza toppings. Sautéed mushrooms, sliced black olives, or even a sprinkle of banana peppers could be delightful additions. Just be sure to pre-cook any vegetables that release a lot of moisture.
Preventing Grainy Sauce: When making the cheese sauce, ensure you add the milk and cream slowly while continuously whisking. This gradual addition helps to create a smooth, lump-free béchamel base. Also, avoid overheating the cheese sauce once the cheese is added, as this can sometimes cause it to break or become grainy. Low heat and gentle stirring are key.
Make Ahead Option: You can assemble this casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge 30 minutes prior to baking to allow it to come closer to room temperature, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if needed to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.
Storage and Reheating: Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, scoop individual portions into a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or cover the entire casserole with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until bubbly. A splash of milk can help revive the creaminess if it seems too thick.

More Delicious Comfort Food Recipes to Enjoy

If you’re still craving that comforting warmth and rich flavor, be sure to explore these other fantastic mac and cheese variations:

Crazy Good Mac and Cheese
Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese
Lobster Mac and Cheese

Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese

Author: MaryAnn Dwyer

Servings: 12 servings

This Supreme Pizza Mac and Cheese is totally drool-worthy! It’s loaded with all the ingredients you love on a supreme pizza pie and is incredibly tasty.

Prep Time: 30 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 1 hr

Ingredients

16 oz. pasta shells (or elbows)
8 oz. sweet Italian sausage, removed from casings
1 cup red onion, chopped
1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 Tbsp. butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 cups marinara sauce
4 cups Fontina cheese, freshly grated (divided)
2 cups mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 oz. pepperoni slices (about 25 slices from a 3 oz. package)
Fresh basil, chopped, for sprinkling (if desired)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 13×9 inch pan with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside. Prepare the macaroni al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside to cool.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook chopped red onion, red, and green peppers for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the Italian sausage and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and continue to cook for one more minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Melt 6 Tbsp. butter over medium heat in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot. Whisk in flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Slowly whisk in milk, cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stirring constantly, continue to cook for 6 minutes until the sauce is nice and thick. Add the marinara sauce, 3 ½ cups Fontina cheese, and 2 cups mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the cooled pasta, the Italian sausage and vegetable mixture, and the pepperoni slices to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine everything evenly. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup Fontina cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden brown, about 30 minutes.
Remove from oven. Sprinkle with fresh chopped basil, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage instead of mild.
Any good quality jarred marinara sauce will work, but a roasted garlic marinara adds extra flavor.
Red onion is recommended for flavor and color, but yellow onion can be used as a substitute.
Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.

Nutrition

Keyword: Comfort Food, mac and cheese, Pasta, Pizza

Cuisine: Italian

Course: Main Course

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