Mac and cheese bites are tasty little treats that pack a big cheesy punch! Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these bites are perfect for snack time or parties.
Who can resist the combo of creamy cheese and pasta? I love making a big batch and sharing with friends, or sneaking a few for myself—just don’t tell anyone! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for mac and cheese. If you’re looking for variety, try using cavatappi or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Cheddar and Mozzarella: Sharp cheddar gives a great taste, while mozzarella adds creaminess. You can swap cheddar for a milder cheese like Monterey Jack, and for mozzarella use provolone.
Whole Milk: This keeps the bites creamy. You can use low-fat milk or even plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, but check that it doesn’t alter the taste too much.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They make the bites extra crispy! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work fine. You can even crush crackers for a fun crunch.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
What’s the Best Way to Manage the Cheese Mixture?
The cheese sauce is key for making these bites creamy. Start by melting the butter and whisking in the flour to create a roux. This step helps thicken your sauce.
- Slowly add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps; it should be smooth after a few minutes.
- Once thickened, mix in the cheeses until fully melted. Stir continuously for a smooth texture.
- Let this mixture cool a bit before adding eggs, which helps bind everything together without scrambling them.
Taking these steps will ensure your mac and cheese bites have that perfect gooey consistency inside.
Mac And Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (about 8 oz)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
For the Coating:
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Cooking spray or oil (for greasing muffin tin)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and about 15-18 minutes to bake. You’ll be enjoying these crispy mac and cheese bites in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab your mini muffin tin and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil. This will help the bites come out easily after baking.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until it’s al dente according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This helps create a roux, which gives your sauce a great base. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Then, remove it from the heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until they melt and create a smooth sauce. Don’t forget to season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for flavor!
4. Mix Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with your delicious cheese sauce. Mix it well! Allow it to cool slightly, and then stir in the eggs to bind everything together.
5. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese. This will add a crispy topping when baked!
6. Assemble the Bites:
Now it’s time to fill your mini muffin tin! Take a spoonful of the mac and cheese mixture and firmly press it into each muffin cup. Once filled, sprinkle the tops generously with the panko breadcrumb mixture to get that crunchy texture.
7. Bake the Bites:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the mac and cheese bites are golden brown and crispy around the edges. Trust me, the aroma will be amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven. Let the bites cool for a few minutes before carefully popping them out. They might need a gentle nudge to remove them from the tin. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your crispy, gooey mac and cheese bites warm alongside your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or spicy ketchup. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like cavatappi, shells, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente.
How Can I Make These Mac And Cheese Bites Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the mac and cheese mixture and fill the muffin tin, then cover it and refrigerate for up to a day. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve, but you may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, ensuring they stay crispy.
Can I Freeze Mac And Cheese Bites?
Yes, these bites freeze well! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and enjoy within 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen with a slight increase in baking time.
