Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac Cheese Recipe

Craving that creamy, dreamy California Pizza Kitchen mac & cheese? This copycat recipe delivers the same rich, cheesy goodness in just 20 minutes! We've perfected the blend of cheeses and creamy sauce to create a dish your whole family will adore. Get ready for a cheesy explosion of flavor!

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Calories 600.1 kcal
Protein 34g
Rating Be the first
Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac Cheese 108

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac Cheese

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How to Make Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac Cheese

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook 1 pound elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water for 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. While pasta cooks, melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.
  4. Add 1 (16 ounce) package velveeta cheese, cut into cubes, and 1 cup heavy cream to the saucepan. Stir frequently until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine until all the pasta is evenly coated.
  7. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. (Optional) Top with breadcrumbs and a little extra grated cheese.
  9. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden brown.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

24 g

Sugar

17g

Fat

97g

Carbs

20g

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac Cheese?

Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac Cheese takes about 25 minutes from start to finish — roughly 5 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac Cheese?

Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac Cheese has approximately 600.1 calories per serving, with about 34 g protein, 20 g carbohydrates and 48 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac Cheese?

The key ingredients for Just Like California Pizza Kitchen Mac Cheese are Rotini Pasta, Velveeta Cheese, Heavy Cream, Unsalted Butter. See the full list with measurements above.

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