California Pizza Kitchen Macaroni and Cheese Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy, and Totally Irresistible!

California Pizza Kitchen Macaroni and Cheese Recipe – My Creamiest, Dreamiest Comfort Food

If there’s one thing that brings pure comfort to the soul, it’s a big bowl of creamy, bubbling macaroni and cheese. But not just any mac and cheese — I’m talking about the California Pizza Kitchen macaroni and cheese recipe. It’s the kind of dish that hugs you from the inside out — ultra-creamy, perfectly cheesy, with that smooth, buttery sauce that clings lovingly to every macaroni curve.

I remember the first time I tasted it at CPK — velvety, rich, with just the right balance of sharp cheddar and mellow creaminess. I was obsessed. Naturally, I had to recreate it at home — and after many delicious attempts, I can confidently say… this homemade version might even top the original.

Let’s dive into this bowl of golden comfort, shall we?

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🧀 Ingredients and Measurements

Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make this irresistible California Pizza Kitchen mac and cheese recipe.

Ingredient	Measurement
Elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)	2 cups (uncooked)
Unsalted butter	4 tablespoons
All-purpose flour	3 tablespoons
Whole milk	2 cups
Heavy cream	1 cup
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded	2 cups
Monterey Jack cheese, shredded	1 cup
Parmesan cheese, grated	½ cup
Salt	1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
Ground black pepper	½ teaspoon
Garlic powder	½ teaspoon
Paprika	¼ teaspoon (optional for color)
Bread crumbs (for topping)	½ cup
Olive oil or melted butter (for topping)	1 tablespoon

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until it’s just al dente — tender but with a slight bite. Remember, it’ll cook a bit more when baked, so don’t overdo it. Drain it well, drizzle a touch of olive oil, and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux (The Secret Sauce Base)

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about a minute until you get a smooth, bubbling paste. This is your roux — the magic base for that luscious cheese sauce.

💡 Pro tip: Keep whisking — you don’t want the flour to brown. The goal is a pale, smooth mixture that smells slightly nutty.

Step 3: Pour in the Milk and Cream

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the heavy cream. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon — this is your cue that the sauce is ready for cheese!

Step 4: Add the Cheese — and Watch the Magic Happen

Lower the heat and gradually stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan. Keep stirring until everything melts into a silky, velvety sauce. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Take a deep breath — that buttery, cheesy aroma filling your kitchen? That’s pure happiness.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Pour the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every noodle. You want the cheese to hug each macaroni like it’s meant to be there (and it is!).

At this stage, you can eat it straight from the pot — and I wouldn’t blame you. But if you want that signature California Pizza Kitchen baked mac and cheese vibe, move on to the next step.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the cheesy pasta into a greased baking dish.

Mix the bread crumbs with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle them evenly on top. Bake uncovered for about 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp.

When it’s bubbling and lightly browned on top — it’s ready.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve your California Pizza Kitchen macaroni and cheese hot, straight from the oven. Pair it with:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette (for contrast).
• Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
• A glass of chilled white wine (because why not?).

Or — do what I often do — grab a spoon and eat it straight from the baking dish.

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💡 Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Mac and Cheese

Here’s what I’ve learned after countless batches of this recipe:

1. Use freshly shredded cheese.

Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that stop it from melting smoothly. Always grate your cheese fresh — your sauce will thank you.

2. Don’t overcook the pasta.

Al dente pasta is key. Overcooked pasta can get mushy once baked.

3. Warm your milk before adding.

Adding cold milk to the roux can cause lumps. Gently warm the milk — it makes the sauce extra silky.

4. Add a pinch of nutmeg.

A tiny bit of nutmeg brings warmth and depth, especially if you’re using heavy cream.

5. Try different cheeses.

CPK’s version mainly uses cheddar and Monterey Jack, but you can play with Gruyère, Fontina, or even smoked gouda for a gourmet twist.

6. Add toppings if you like texture.

A sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or fried onions gives a salty crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

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🧂 Flavor Variations

Once you master the base recipe, try these creative spins:

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Truffle Mac & Cheese: Stir in a teaspoon of truffle oil before baking.
• Veggie Lovers: Add sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or caramelized onions.
• Lobster Mac: Add chunks of cooked lobster tail for a restaurant-worthy dish.

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🧡 My Story Behind This Recipe

You know, every time I make this, it takes me back to a cozy evening in California, where I first tried CPK’s mac and cheese after a long beach day. I remember that creamy bite — the perfect mix of salty, cheesy comfort — and thinking, “I need this recipe in my life forever.”

Fast forward years later, and here I am — with my own version that’s now a family favorite. My kids love it. My friends request it. And honestly, I love the simplicity of it. It’s that kind of dish you make when you want to impress someone — or when you just need a little comfort in a bowl.

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❓ FAQ: California Pizza Kitchen Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

1. What cheese does California Pizza Kitchen use in their mac and cheese?

They mainly use sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for that signature creamy, slightly tangy flavor combo.

2. Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and pasta, mix them, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it for 20–25 minutes at 375°F until bubbly.

3. How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and replace the flour with cornstarch (2 tablespoons instead of 3). The rest stays the same!

4. Can I skip the baking step?

Yes, you can! It’ll still taste incredible as a stovetop mac and cheese — just skip the bread crumb topping.

5. What can I serve it with?

It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, garlic bread, or even roasted veggies. Or just enjoy it as a full meal — it’s that satisfying.

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🌟 Final Thoughts

If you love creamy, cheesy, comforting food that tastes like a warm hug, this California Pizza Kitchen macaroni and cheese recipe is going to win your heart. It’s rich yet balanced, indulgent yet comforting — the kind of dish that makes everyone around the table smile.

Every forkful melts in your mouth — that buttery sauce, the perfect hint of salt, and that golden, baked cheese crust. This isn’t just a copycat recipe — it’s an upgrade. A homemade masterpiece you’ll make again and again.

So, grab your whisk, grate your cheese, and let’s bring that California flavor right to your kitchen. Because life’s too short not to eat great mac and cheese.

See Also: Cabbage Pizza Recipe | Healthy, Flavor-Packed Italian Pizza Twist