California Pizza Kitchen Macaroni and Cheese Recipe: 1 Minute to a Delicious Comfort Food Classic

Craving the creamy goodness of California Pizza Kitchen’s famous macaroni and cheese? This beloved side dish turns classic comfort food into a creamy, cheesy delight. As a designer, I know the importance of recreating that perfect blend of texture and flavor at home—balancing a velvety sauce with baked texture while keeping visual appeal is key! Here’s how you can channel that restaurant-quality experience in your own kitchen.

California Pizza Kitchen Macaroni and Cheese Copycat Recipe

1. Ingredients:
2. 8 oz elbow macaroni
3. 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (medium or sharp)
4. 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
5. 2 cups whole milk
6. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
7. 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
8. 1/2 teaspoon salt
9. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10. 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
11. 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12. 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
13. Instructions:
14. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
15. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
16. Prepare the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, forming a roux.
17. Gradually whisk in milk. Keep stirring until mixture thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
18. Reduce heat to low. Stir in Cheddar, Monterey Jack, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth. Fold in cooked macaroni.
19. Pour macaroni and cheese into a greased baking dish. Top with Parmesan (and panko, if using).
20. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the top is slightly golden and bubbly.
21. Let cool slightly before serving.

As a designer, I value not just taste but also presentation and atmosphere. Think about serving your macaroni and cheese in individual ramekins or a beautiful serving dish to elevate mealtime. If you want your dining area to complement this comfort food experience, incorporating warm tones or cozy textiles can help set the mood. For anyone redesigning their eating nook or considering an open-concept kitchen, using an intuitive kitchen layout planner can transform your culinary space into an inspiring and practical environment.

Tips 1:

For an ultra-creamy finish, use freshly shredded cheeses (they melt better than pre-shredded). To add a gourmet twist, mix in roasted garlic, chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of truffle oil before baking. If you want to meal-prep, assemble everything ahead and bake just before serving to keep that perfect texture.

FAQ

Q: Can I use other types of pasta?

A: Absolutely! Shells, cavatappi, or penne work well and hold cheese sauce nicely.

Q: Is there a gluten-free option?

A: Yes, substitute gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Q: How can I make it extra cheesy?

A: Add more Monterey Jack or swap in creamy cheeses like Fontina or Gruyère for extra indulgence.

Q: Can this dish be made ahead of time?

A: Yes, assemble, refrigerate, and bake before serving for best results.

Q: What sides go well with this macaroni and cheese?

A: Light salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken complement the richness perfectly.