When two beloved comfort foods collide, magic happens! This Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe brings together the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the satisfying crunch of pizza crust. If you’ve never tried this unique combination before, you’re in for a delightful surprise that will revolutionize your pizza night.
This Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe originated from the popular pizza chain but has become a home kitchen favorite for families seeking something extraordinary. The concept might sound unusual at first, but the marriage of tender pasta, rich cheese sauce, and crispy pizza base creates an unforgettable dining experience, like the Cicis Pizza Cinnamon Rolls.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to try something new for dinner, this Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe delivers comfort food satisfaction in every single bite. Get ready to create a pizza that’s truly one-of-a-kind!
My Personal Experience with This Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe
The first time I attempted this Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe, I was honestly skeptical. How could mac and cheese work as a pizza topping? But after that first bite, I was completely converted. The creamy texture of the mac and cheese paired with the tangy pizza sauce created a flavor profile I never expected to love so much.
What really won me over with this Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe was how my family reacted. My kids, who are usually picky eaters, devoured their slices and immediately asked when I’d make it again. Even my husband, who’s traditional when it comes to pizza, admitted this unique creation had earned a permanent spot in our dinner rotation.
Now, whenever I make this Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe, it brings our family together around the kitchen island, eagerly waiting for that first slice. It’s become our go-to recipe for special occasions, movie nights, and whenever we want to turn an ordinary evening into something memorable and delicious.
Ingredients Required for This Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pizza:
- 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Cooking spray or olive oil
- All-purpose flour (for dusting)
Kitchen Utensils List
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Medium saucepan for cheese sauce
- Colander for draining pasta
- Whisk for sauce preparation
- Pizza pan or large baking sheet
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Large spoon for spreading
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large mixing bowl
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Oven mitts
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Mac and Cheese Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Pizza Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Serves: 4-6 people
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Recipe Instructions for This Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza
Step 1: Prepare the Mac and Cheese Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Add cheddar cheese, cream cheese, salt, and pepper, stirring until melted and creamy. Combine with drained pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Dough Preheat oven to 420°F (215°C). On a floured surface, shape pizza dough into a ball, then press and stretch into a 12-inch circle using your fingertips. Transfer to a greased pizza pan and continue stretching to fit the pan.
Step 3: Pre-bake the Crust Using a fork, poke holes throughout the dough to prevent bubbling. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crust texture in your Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe.
Step 4: Add Toppings Spread pizza sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border for the crust. Layer the prepared mac and cheese over the sauce, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle dried basil evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Keep an eye on it as oven temperatures vary.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Allow pizza to cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing. Cut into wedges and serve immediately while hot and gooey.
Storage Guidance for Leftover Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza
Store leftover pizza in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness, or microwave for 30-45 seconds for a softer texture. Avoid freezing as the mac and cheese texture changes significantly when thawed.
Serving Ideas for This Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe
- Game Night Special – Cut into small squares and serve as finger food appetizers alongside buffalo wings and vegetable sticks for the ultimate comfort food spread.
- Family Dinner Style – Serve whole slices with a fresh garden salad and garlic breadsticks to balance the richness of this indulgent pizza creation.
- Kids’ Party Hit – Present on colorful plates with fun drink options like chocolate milk or fruit punch to make it extra special for young guests.
- Date Night Twist – Pair with a crisp white wine and arugula salad drizzled with balsamic glaze for an elevated dining experience at home.
- Brunch Innovation – Serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a unique weekend brunch that combines breakfast and lunch favorites.
Tips for This Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe
- Perfect Mac and Cheese Consistency – Make your mac and cheese slightly thicker than usual since it will release moisture during baking. This prevents a soggy pizza crust.
- Dough Handling Secret – Let pizza dough come to room temperature for 30 minutes before stretching. This makes it much easier to work with and prevents tearing.
- Cheese Layering Technique – Place half the mozzarella under the mac and cheese and half on top. This creates better cheese distribution and prevents the mac and cheese from sliding off.
- Sauce Application Tip – Use a light hand with pizza sauce since the mac and cheese is already rich. Too much sauce can make the pizza soggy and overpower the flavors.
- Baking Success Strategy – Place pizza on the lowest oven rack for the first 8 minutes, then move to center rack for remaining time. This ensures a crispy bottom crust.
This Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe proves that the best culinary innovations come from combining beloved classics in unexpected ways. The creamy, cheesy comfort of mac and cheese paired with crispy pizza crust creates a dining experience that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or entertaining friends, this unique recipe is guaranteed to be a conversation starter and crowd-pleaser.
Ready to surprise your taste buds? Try this amazing fusion recipe tonight and discover why mac and cheese pizza has become such a sensation!
Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ball pizza dough store-bought or homemade
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce homemade or store-bought
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Mac and Cheese Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Add cheddar cheese, cream cheese, salt, and pepper, stirring until melted and creamy. Combine with drained pasta and set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Dough Preheat oven to 420°F (215°C). On a floured surface, shape pizza dough into a ball, then press and stretch into a 12-inch circle using your fingertips. Transfer to a greased pizza pan and continue stretching to fit the pan.
- Step 3: Pre-bake the Crust Using a fork, poke holes throughout the dough to prevent bubbling. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crust texture in your Cicis Mac and Cheese Pizza Recipe.
- Step 4: Add Toppings Spread pizza sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border for the crust. Layer the prepared mac and cheese over the sauce, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle dried basil evenly over the top.
- Step 5: Bake to Perfection Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Keep an eye on it as oven temperatures vary.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Allow pizza to cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing. Cut into wedges and serve immediately while hot and gooey.
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Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about this Recipe that people often asked.
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with shells, rotini, or penne pasta. Choose shapes that hold cheese sauce well and are bite-sized for easy pizza eating.
What’s the best cheese combination for the mac and cheese portion?
Sharp cheddar provides the classic flavor, but you can mix in Gouda, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for more complexity. Avoid pre-shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce texture.
Can I make this recipe with store-bought mac and cheese?
Yes! Use boxed mac and cheese if you’re short on time, but add extra cheese to make it creamier and thicker. Let it cool slightly before spreading on pizza to prevent melting the dough.
How do I prevent the pizza from getting soggy?
Pre-bake the crust for 5 minutes before adding toppings, use thick mac and cheese, apply sauce sparingly, and bake on the lowest oven rack initially for maximum bottom heat.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make the mac and cheese up to 2 days ahead and store refrigerated. The pizza dough can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
What variations can I try with this base recipe?
Add crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, jalapeños for heat, or breadcrumb topping for extra crunch. You can also experiment with different pizza sauce flavors like BBQ or white sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and pizza dough. Ensure your flour for the cheese sauce is gluten-free, and check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with celiac disease.
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