Description
Deliciously cheesy mac and cheese breadsticks featuring creamy cheddar macaroni wrapped in golden, buttery pizza dough. These warm, comforting appetizers are perfect for snack time or parties.
Ingredients
Scale
Mac and Cheese Filling
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Dough and Topping
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni. Prepare the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Make the Cheese Sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Whisk in 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 1 cup whole milk and stir continuously until the mixture thickens, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated and evenly mixed, then set aside.
- Prepare Dough Base. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet and roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a large rectangle directly on the sheet.
- Assemble Breadsticks. Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over half of the dough rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, then press edges firmly together to seal.
- Add Toppings. Brush the top of the dough with melted butter and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Bake. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. Slice into 8 breadsticks and serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can use mozzarella or a cheddar blend for a stretchier, meltier filling.
- These breadsticks are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in the oven to restore crispness.
- Ensure the dough edges are well sealed to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
