These Macaroni and Cheese Bites are little cheesy wonders that pack all the goodness of the classic comfort food into bite-sized pieces! They’re crispy outside and gooey inside—what’s not to love?
Perfect for snacking or as a fun side dish! I usually make a big batch, and they disappear faster than I can say “cheese”! 🧀 Just bake them and enjoy cheesy happiness in every bite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for macaroni and cheese. If you want to switch things up, cavatappi or shells work great too. They hold onto the cheese sauce really well.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick to the flavor. If you prefer milder cheese, you can use medium cheddar or even Monterey Jack. Mixing cheeses like Gouda or Pepper Jack can add exciting depth!
Milk: Whole milk creates a rich sauce, but you can use 2% or even almond milk if you’re looking for lighter or dairy-free options. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change a bit.
Panko Bread Crumbs: These make the bites extra crispy! If you don’t have panko, regular bread crumbs work too, but they won’t be as crunchy. You can even use crushed crackers for a fun twist.
Eggs: They help bind the bites together. If you’re vegan or allergic, a mix of ground flaxseed and water can act as a great egg substitute (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
How Do I Make Sure My Bites Hold Together?
Getting the right texture is key for these bites to hold their shape. Here are some steps to help:
- After mixing the macaroni with the cheese sauce, cooling it is essential! This lets the mixture firm up. Chill it for at least an hour.
- When you roll the mac and cheese into balls, pack them tightly to maintain their shape while baking.
- Coating in breadcrumbs adds an extra layer of support. Make sure to press them down gently into the muffin tin.
Following these steps ensures you’ll have perfectly bite-sized, cheesy goodness that stays together when baked. Happy cooking!
How to Make Macaroni And Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs or plain bread crumbs
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing pan
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes for prep work and then 20-25 minutes for baking. Additionally, plan for at least 1 hour of chilling time to firm everything up. So, let’s say around 2 hours from start to enjoying these cheesy bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-8 minutes, until just al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Make Your Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and keep stirring for about 1-2 minutes until you create a roux—it should be smooth and bubbling but not browned. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and is creamy (around 4-5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, mustard powder, and both types of cheese until melted and smooth.
3. Combine Pasta and Cheese:
Add the cooked macaroni to your cheese sauce and stir gently to combine everything evenly.
4. Chill the Mixture:
Pour the mixed macaroni and cheese into a shallow dish. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to shape.
5. Preheat Your Oven:
When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Don’t forget to grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking!
6. Form the Bites:
Once it’s chilled, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the macaroni and cheese mixture and roll it into a ball. Dip each ball into the beaten eggs, then coat them thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
7. Place in Muffin Tin:
Put each breaded ball into the prepared mini muffin cups, gently pressing down to ensure they fill the cup evenly.
8. Bake:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Allow the bites to cool for a few minutes in the pan before carefully removing them using a small spatula or knife. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and revel in the deliciousness of these crispy macaroni and cheese bites!
These cheesy bites are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a fun side dish! Enjoy every gooey, crispy bite!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to choose a gluten-free elbow macaroni. The cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check the package instructions for al dente cooking time.
Can I Make These Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator. Form the bites and bake them just before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze the uncooked bites; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftover Macaroni And Cheese Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness or microwave them, though they may lose some crunch.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Mixture?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in cooked bacon, diced vegetables, or spices to customize your bites. Just be aware of the extra moisture from ingredients like vegetables, which might require a little tweaked cooking time.
