Description
These Mac and Cheese Bites are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, featuring creamy macaroni and cheese baked into individual portions for a perfect appetizer or snack. With a crispy breadcrumb topping and a burst of cheesy flavor in every bite, these bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Mac and Cheese Bites:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with nonstick spray.
- Cook the macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and cook until slightly thickened. Stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth. Remove from heat.
- Combine and bake: Stir the cooked macaroni and beaten egg into the cheese sauce until coated. Spoon the mixture into the muffin tin, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for 18-20 minutes until golden and set.
- Serve: Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before removing. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- These bites can be made ahead and reheated in the oven or air fryer for a crispy finish.
- For extra flavor, try mixing in cooked bacon bits, diced jalapeños, or a blend of cheeses.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 bites
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
