Description
Baked Mac and Cheese Bites are delightful, crunchy snacks filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- 2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour until smooth to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened (5-7 minutes). Add cheddar cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all cheese is melted.
- 3. Combine Pasta with Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly so every piece of pasta is coated in cheesy goodness.
- 4. Form the Bites: Let the mixture cool slightly before shaping it into small balls or bite-sized cubes (about one inch). Place them on a lined baking sheet.
- 5. Coat with Panko: In another bowl, add panko breadcrumbs. Roll each mac and cheese bite in panko until evenly coated.
- 6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake bites for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- 7. Serve: Transfer to plates and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, try mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda. - Feel free to add chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.