These Mac and Cheese Bites are a crunchy, cheesy treat everyone loves! They’re made with creamy mac and cheese, rolled into bites, and baked until golden.
Can you say snack time? I mean, who doesn’t want a crispy version of their favorite comfort food? They’re perfect for a party or just for me to munch on while binge-watching TV! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape is perfect for mac and cheese. You can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or any small pasta. Just keep an eye on cooking times.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A must for that strong cheese flavor! If you want to mix things up, try using Monterey Jack or a combination of cheeses like mozzarella and gouda for extra creaminess.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for that perfect crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but they won’t be quite as crispy.
Whole Milk: While whole milk adds creaminess, you can use 2% or even a dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. Just make sure they’re unsweetened!
Fresh Parsley: It brightens the dish and adds color. You can skip it or swap it for chives or even a sprinkle of paprika for an earthy flair.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Crunchy Coating?
The key to getting that lovely crunchy exterior lies in two main steps: the breadcrumbs and cooking spray. Here’s how to ensure your Mac and Cheese Bites turn out crispy:
- Coat Well: Make sure each mac and cheese ball is fully covered in the panko mix. You can press gently to help it stick.
- Use Cooking Spray: Lightly spraying the tops before baking helps achieve that golden brown color. Don’t skip this!
- Watch the Clock: Keep an eye on them while they bake. They can go from golden to burnt quickly if you’re not careful, so check them around the 15-minute mark.
These steps will ensure your bites have a wonderful crunch while keeping the cheesy inside melty and delightful! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Delightful Mac and Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Coating:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to bake, so plan for a total of around 50 minutes from start to finish. Don’t forget that these bites will need a few minutes to cool before you dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Oven and Muffin Tin:
Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with silicone liners to prevent the bites from sticking. The muffin tin makes the perfect shape for your bites!
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a pot, cook your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, making sure it’s al dente (still firm, not mushy). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. This pasta is going to be the lovely base of your bites!
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until they combine and form a thick paste, known as a roux. This is the base of your creamy sauce!
4. Add Milk and Cheese:
Gradually add the milk to the roux while whisking continuously. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens up (about 4-5 minutes). Once it’s thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in your shredded cheddar cheese until it’s all melted and smooth. This cheesy goodness is what makes it a mac and cheese recipe!
5. Season and Combine:
Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Now fold in the cooked elbow macaroni until everything is well mixed. Let this indulgent mixture cool slightly before moving on to the next step.
6. Prepare for Coating:
In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This is going to give your bites that irresistible crunch!
7. Form the Bites:
Using a small spoon or a cookie scoop, form the mac and cheese mixture into bite-sized balls (about tablespoon-sized). Be creative—it’s okay if they are not perfectly round! Just make them fun.
8. Coat the Bites:
Take each ball, dip it first into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off, then roll it in the panko-Parmesan mixture until it’s well coated. This step is crucial for that crispy outer layer!
9. Arrange and Spray:
Place each coated mac and cheese bite into your prepared muffin tin. Once they’re all in, give the tops a light spray with cooking spray for an extra crispy finish.
10. Bake Your Bites:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end so they don’t burn!
11. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, take them out and let them cool in the tin for a few minutes. Then, carefully remove the bites and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving!
Enjoy your crunchy, cheesy Mac and Cheese Bites that are perfect for any occasion! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking duration.
How Do I Store Leftover Mac and Cheese Bites?
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for the best crispy texture, or microwave them for a quicker option.
Can I Freeze These Bites?
Yes! These bites freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake them straight from the freezer, increasing the baking time by a few minutes!
What Can I Serve with Mac and Cheese Bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or even a spicy aioli! They also go well as an appetizer alongside a simple salad or as part of a party platter!