Are you craving the cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese but want something a little…different? Then prepare yourself for a flavor explosion! This recipe recreates the beloved Cici's macaroni and cheese pizza, bringing that unique blend of creamy, cheesy pasta and crispy pizza crust right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, a fantastic quick dinner idea, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Get ready to experience a delicious twist on two comfort food classics!
Ingredients:
For the Pizza Crust:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Making the Pizza Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Stir in olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, adding more flour as needed until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preparing the Mac and Cheese:
- Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While macaroni cooks, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
- Stir in salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in cooked macaroni.
Assembling and Baking the Pizza:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large circle or rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
- Transfer the dough to a pizza pan or baking sheet.
- Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese Pizza:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the mac and cheese sauce.
- If you like a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mac and cheese.
- Don't overload the pizza with mac and cheese; it'll make it difficult to bake evenly and could result in a soggy crust.
Variations:
- Add-ins: Get creative with your toppings! Bacon bits, chopped ham, or caramelized onions would all be delicious additions.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the mac and cheese for a spicy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator online and input your specific ingredients. However, expect a high calorie, high fat, and high protein meal.
This Cici's macaroni and cheese pizza recipe is a delightful fusion of two comfort food favorites. It’s a simple yet impressive dish perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or even a fun weeknight meal. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make homemade creation!