Some combinations are just meant to be. Peanut butter and jelly, cookies and milk, bacon and eggs. They’re classic for a reason. But every now and then, a new combination comes along that is so audacious, so unapologetically decadent, it creates a category all its own. Friends, allow me to introduce you to the Bacon Mac and Cheese Pizza.
Yes, you read that right. We’re putting creamy, dreamy macaroni and cheese right where the tomato sauce usually goes, topping it with crispy bacon and even more cheese, and baking it to bubbly, golden-brown perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food hybrid, a dish that will make your inner child squeal with delight and your adult self marvel at its sheer genius.
This isn’t just a novelty recipe; it’s a game-changer for pizza nights, parties, and any time you need a serious dose of deliciousness. It’s the kind of meal that silences a room, followed by a chorus of “oohs” and “aahs.” Ready to create a legend in your own kitchen? Let’s get cooking.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a firm believer that “more is more” when it comes to comfort food. Why choose between two of the greatest dishes ever invented when you can have them both at the same time? This Bacon Mac and Cheese Pizza is the embodiment of that philosophy.
What makes this recipe a staple in my rotation?
- Ultimate Comfort Food: It combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the savory, satisfying crunch of a great pizza. It’s a warm hug on a plate.
- Insanely Flavorful: The rich macaroni, the salty, smoky bacon, the gooey mozzarella, and the crisp crust create a symphony of flavors and textures in every single bite.
- Surprisingly Easy: It looks and tastes like a million bucks, but it comes together incredibly quickly, especially if you have leftover mac and cheese on hand. It’s a “wow-factor” meal without the fuss.
- Crowd-Pleaser Guaranteed: I have yet to serve this to anyone—kid or adult—who hasn’t immediately fallen in love. It’s the first thing to disappear at any gathering.
This recipe is more than just dinner; it’s an experience. It’s fun, it’s a little bit wild, and it’s guaranteed to be memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, powerhouse ingredients to create its magic.
- Bacon (6 strips, crumbled): The salt and smoky flavor of bacon is essential here. Cook it until it’s perfectly crisp so it provides a nice textural contrast to the creamy mac.
- Cooked Macaroni and Cheese (1 cup): You can use your favorite homemade recipe or even a high-quality boxed version in a pinch. A thicker, creamier mac and cheese works best as it will spread more evenly.
- Pizza Dough (1): A 12-inch store-bought dough is a fantastic time-saver. You can use a classic, thin crust, or even a deep-dish style dough depending on your preference. If you have a favorite homemade dough recipe, by all means, use it!
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Brushing the dough with olive oil helps the crust get golden and crispy and prevents it from getting soggy.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 ½ cups): The king of pizza cheeses! Its mild flavor and epic cheese-pull capabilities make it the perfect finishing touch.
Swaps and Notes
- Bacon Swap: Feel free to use pancetta, crumbled Italian sausage, or even diced ham. For a vegetarian version, you can use a plant-based bacon substitute or simply omit it.
- Cheese Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment! A blend of mozzarella, provolone, and sharp cheddar would be incredible. A sprinkle of Parmesan for a nutty, salty kick is also a great addition.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mac and cheese or sprinkle it over the top before baking for a little bit of heat. A dash of smoked paprika in the mac and cheese will also beautifully complement the bacon.
- Herbaceous Notes: A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley over the finished pizza adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Let’s Build the Bacon Mac Attack Pizza!
Follow these simple steps for pizza perfection.
Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Servings: 4
Step 1: Preheat and Prep First things first, get your oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven now so it gets nice and hot. This is the secret to a crispy bottom crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to your desired thickness and shape. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or a pizza peel if you’re using a stone. Gently brush the entire surface of the dough with the olive oil. This creates a barrier that helps keep the crust from getting soggy under our glorious toppings.
Step 3: Layer the Mac and Cheese Now for the fun part. Spoon the cooked macaroni and cheese onto the pizza dough, spreading it out in an even layer, leaving a small border for the crust. Think of it as your pizza sauce.
Step 4: Add the Toppings Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the macaroni and cheese. Don’t be shy! Then, blanket the entire pizza with that beautiful shredded mozzarella cheese, making sure to go all the way to the edges.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection Carefully slide the pizza into the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to get those irresistible browned spots.
Step 6: Rest and Serve Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This is crucial as it allows the cheese to set up a bit, preventing all the toppings from sliding off when you slice into it. Slice, serve, and prepare for applause.
Tips for Success
- Use Thick Mac and Cheese: A looser, saucier mac and cheese can make the pizza soggy. If your mac is a bit thin, you can thicken it with a little extra cheese or a sprinkle of flour.
- Pre-cook Your Bacon: Make sure your bacon is fully cooked and crisp before adding it to the pizza. It won’t have enough time to cook properly in the oven otherwise.
- Don’t Overload: As tempting as it is, try not to pile the mac and cheese on too thick. A nice, even layer is all you need.
- Hot Oven is Key: A properly preheated oven is non-negotiable for a great pizza crust.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pizza is a meal in itself, but if you’re looking to round it out, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing would be a perfect, tangy contrast.
For a full-on party spread, you could start with some easy appetizers. Before the main event, why not serve up a crowd-pleasing dip? This Beer Cheese Dip would be an amazing starter, playing on all those cheesy, savory notes. Or, for something with a bit of a kick, this Crockpot Nacho Dip is always a hit.
Storage and Leftover Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is a big “if”), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I highly recommend avoiding the microwave, which can make the crust rubbery. The best way is to place the slices in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes to crisp up the bottom, then cover the pan for a minute or two to melt the cheese. You can also reheat it in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you’re a fan of cheesy, crowd-pleasing dishes, you’ve come to the right place. Check out some of my other favorite recipes:
- Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter
- How I Turned a Classic Sandwich into the Ultimate Cheesy Hot Dip
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas Are My Favorite Way to Feed a Crowd Fast
- This Beer Cheese Dip Is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears in Minutes
- This Crockpot Nacho Dip Is the Reason I Never Have Leftovers
Final Thoughts
This Bacon Mac and Cheese Pizza is pure, unadulterated joy. It’s a testament to the fact that cooking should be fun and that sometimes, the most out-there ideas are the most delicious. Give it a try for your next pizza night—I promise it will be an instant favorite.
I’d love to know what you think! Did you try it? Did you add your own twist? Let me know in the comments below. And if you make it, be sure to tag us on social media! We love seeing your creations.
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