Save Mac and Cheese BBQ Chicken Pizza is what happens when comfort food cravings collide—creamy mac and cheese layered over crispy pizza crust, crowned with tender BBQ chicken and bubbling cheese. This recipe is my family's go to when we need something fun and utterly satisfying for movie nights or a cozy gathering.
My kids' faces light up every time I pull this pie from the oven. I first made it for a birthday sleepover and now they ask for it over takeout on special occasions.
Ingredients
- Pizza dough: about one pound of store bought or homemade ensures the base is sturdy and chewy for all the toppings
- Elbow macaroni: classic for creamy mac and cheese boxes and bags with no broken pieces cook most evenly
- Unsalted butter: key for a rich roux without adding saltiness control your seasoning better
- All purpose flour: thickens your cheese sauce for that luscious pull
- Whole milk: whole for a silkier sauce avoid skim for best results
- Sharp cheddar cheese: brings flavor depth and that classic mac and cheese color grate it fresh if possible for meltability
- Salt and black pepper: enhances all flavors freshly cracked black pepper adds an aromatic kick
- Cooked chicken breast: shredded for juicy bites use leftovers or store bought rotisserie for speed
- BBQ sauce: gives the chicken smoky sweet punch pick your favorite brand or homemade
- Mozzarella cheese: oozy pulling wonder that holds everything together look for whole milk mozzarella for the best melt
- Red onion: sliced thinly adds tang and crunch
- Fresh cilantro: optional but brightens everything select bunches with crisp stems
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Set your oven to 475 degrees Fahrenheit and if you have a pizza stone place it in to heat up fully before baking. This ensures the crust gets crispy and golden.
- Cook the Macaroni:
- Boil a medium pot of salted water over high heat. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente about six to seven minutes. Drain thoroughly then set aside to avoid soggy noodles later.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat melt the butter completely. Whisk in the flour and let it gently bubble for a minute so you do not taste raw flour. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly then let the mixture thicken for two or three minutes while whisking to prevent scorching.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings:
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in all the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until completely melted for a silky smooth sauce. Taste then season with salt and black pepper to your liking.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
- Fold the drained macaroni into the sauce using a big spoon so every piece is coated in creamy cheese.
- Toss Chicken with BBQ Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl combine shredded chicken and BBQ sauce until every strand is juicy and boldly flavored.
- Shape the Pizza Dough:
- Dust a clean counter with flour. Using your hands or a rolling pin gently stretch or roll the dough into a twelve inch round. Move it to a parchment lined baking sheet or your hot pizza stone for easy transfer.
- Assemble the Pizza:
- Gently spread the creamy mac and cheese over the crust with a spoon leaving a narrow border bare for a crisp edge.
- Layer the BBQ Chicken and Toppings:
- Scatter the BBQ chicken generously over the mac and cheese so each bite gets a little of everything. Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly for a gooey top then distribute red onion slices for bite and color.
- Bake:
- Slide the pizza into the hot oven. Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes or until the edges are a deep golden brown and the cheese bubbles with brown spots.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once out of the oven immediately drizzle extra BBQ sauce and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro for color and freshness. Cut and serve hot for best flavor and texture.
Save Mac and cheese is my ultimate comfort food so using it as a creamy pizza sauce makes this recipe truly special for me. My favorite part is watching the layers of cheese melt and bubble in the oven—it always takes me back to family nights filled with laughter and second helpings.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover pizza tightly wrapped or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To prevent the crust from going soft reheat slices in a hot oven or a skillet rather than the microwave which keeps everything crisp and gooey.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need a shortcut you can use boxed mac and cheese or swap in any cooked small pasta shapes. For a tangy twist try Monterey Jack or smoked gouda instead of cheddar. If you prefer a vegetarian version just skip the chicken and pile on sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies tossed in BBQ sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This pizza pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or coleslaw to balance out the richness. For a party cut it in smaller squares as an appetizer platter. I like serving it with a side of extra BBQ sauce in ramekins for dipping.
Cultural and Historical Context
Fusion pizzas like this are a true celebration of American creativity in the kitchen combining Southern BBQ flavors with Italian style pizza and nostalgic mac and cheese for a dish that feels both innovative and familiar. These recipes began showing up at fun pizza chains and creative pizzerias across the US but homemade is always best.
Save This pizza delivers creamy, smoky, and cheesy layers in every slice. Make it once and it may just become your new movie night tradition.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Absolutely. Homemade or store-bought dough both work great for this preparation, depending on convenience and preference.
- → Is it possible to substitute other cheeses?
Yes, try smoked gouda or Monterey Jack for extra flavor, or blend them with cheddar to suit your taste.
- → How do I make it spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños before baking, or choose a spicy BBQ sauce for a kick.
- → Can I prepare the macaroni ahead?
Yes. Cook the macaroni and prepare the cheese sauce in advance, then assemble and bake when ready.
- → What drinks pair well?
A crisp lager or lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the rich flavors and balances the creamy cheese.
- → Is there a vegetarian alternative?
Swap the chicken for roasted veggies and use vegetarian-friendly BBQ sauce for a meatless option.