There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy bowl of pasta, and Boston Pizza’s Bugs & Cheese is the ultimate childhood favorite. With adorable bug-shaped pasta coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, this dish is as fun to eat as it is delicious! Whether you’re making it for kids or indulging in some nostalgic comfort food yourself, this copycat recipe brings all the cheesy goodness straight to your kitchen.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Trust me, once you try this homemade version, you may never go back to the restaurant version again. It’s that good!
Why You’ll Love Boston Pizza Copycat Bugs & Cheese
Fun & Kid-Friendly
The cute bug-shaped pasta makes mealtime exciting for little ones (and let’s be honest, for us adults too).
Ultra Creamy & Cheesy
Made with real cheese for a rich, smooth, and velvety sauce.
Quick & Easy
Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable
Want to add some extra flavor? Try mixing in bacon, veggies, or a pinch of seasoning.
Homemade Goodness
No artificial ingredients—just simple, wholesome flavors.
Ingredients in Boston Pizza Copycat Bugs & Cheese
Bug-Shaped Pasta: The star of the dish! These fun-shaped noodles make this mac & cheese extra special.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create a silky sauce.
Flour: Used to thicken the cheese sauce to the perfect creamy consistency.
Milk: Whole milk works best for a smooth, creamy texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives that classic mac & cheese flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: Adds extra creaminess and a gooey, stretchy texture.
Parmesan Cheese: For a hint of nuttiness and depth of flavor.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the taste.
Garlic Powder (Optional): A subtle boost of flavor for a more grown-up twist.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bug-shaped pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute until slightly golden.
Add the Milk
Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Melt the Cheese
Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until every piece is coated in creamy goodness.
Serve & Enjoy
Serve warm and enjoy immediately! Feel free to top with extra cheese or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for added texture.
How to Serve Boston Pizza Copycat Bugs & Cheese
Classic Style
Serve hot in a bowl with an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese on top.
Crunchy Topping
Top with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy contrast.
Protein Boost
Mix in shredded chicken, crispy bacon, or sliced hot dogs for extra heartiness.
Veggie Packed
Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or roasted red peppers for a nutritious twist.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a little heat.
Additional Tips
Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Grating your own cheese ensures a smoother melt.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Slightly undercooked pasta will hold up better in the cheese sauce.
Adjust Thickness
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
Make It Extra Creamy
Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream for even more richness.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A1: Absolutely! Any short pasta like shells, elbows, or rotini works well.
Q2: What’s the best cheese combination?
A2: A mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan gives the best balance of creaminess and flavor.
Q3: Can I make it gluten-free?
A3: Yes! Just use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Q4: How do I make it extra cheesy?
A4: Stir in an extra handful of cheese right before serving or top with more melted cheese.
Q5: Can I freeze it?
A5: Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may become grainy when reheated.
Q6: Can I make it ahead of time?
A6: Yes! Just reheat on the stove with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Q7: What’s the best milk to use?
A7: Whole milk is best for creaminess, but you can use 2% or even unsweetened oat or almond milk as alternatives.
Q8: Can I add meat?
A8: Yes! Shredded chicken, crumbled sausage, or bacon are great additions.
Q9: How do I keep it from getting dry?
A9: Avoid overbaking (if reheating) and always add a splash of milk when warming up leftovers.
Q10: Can I make this in the oven?
A10: Yes! Transfer the mixed pasta and cheese sauce to a baking dish, top with cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until golden.
Final Thoughts
This Boston Pizza Copycat Bugs & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly fun! Whether you’re making it for kids or just embracing the nostalgia, this homemade version brings all the cozy, delicious flavors straight to your kitchen. Try it out and let me know how it turns out. One bite, and you’ll be hooked!
Print
Boston Pizza Copycat Bugs & Cheese
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Boston Pizza Copycat Bugs & Cheese is a fun and creamy mac and cheese made with bug-shaped pasta, a velvety white sauce, and a blend of cheeses. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this quick and easy dinner is ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
- 3 cups bug-shaped pasta
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheese of choice (cheddar and parmesan recommended)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a salted pot of water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and drizzle with a little oil to prevent sticking.
- In a separate pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and whisk until a smooth paste forms. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir until melted and slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
- Serve warm with extra parmesan or red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a sharper flavor, use aged cheddar or a mix of cheeses.
- Add cooked bacon or ham for extra protein.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 85mg