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Crispy Mac and Cheese Bites

Close-up of golden, crispy Mac and cheese bites, one cut in half to show the cheesy interior.

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Bake classic macaroni and cheese into crispy, golden bites perfect for appetizers or kid-friendly snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with cooking spray.
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, and Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
  7. In a small bowl, combine the beaten eggs. In another small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the macaroni and cheese mixture into each mini muffin cup.
  9. Dip the top of each macaroni and cheese bite into the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  11. Let cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before removing.

Notes

  • For extra crispy edges, you can lightly spray the tops of the bites with cooking spray before baking.
  • These bites can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven.
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like ketchup or ranch.
  • Consider these a great alternative to traditional meal planning for busy weeknights.

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