Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and fun way to serve macaroni and cheese, these macaroni cheese bites are the perfect solution. They’re easy to make and ideal for parties, snack time, or as a tasty side dish. With a rich cheese sauce and a crispy topping, these bites will surely be a hit with family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 8 ounces macaroni noodles, cooked and drained
– ¼ cup salted butter
– ¼ cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon white ground pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– ¾ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
– ⅓ cup Panko breadcrumbs
Prep Time
Prep time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 25 minutes, making the total time for this recipe about 40 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 12 macaroni cheese bites, depending on the size of your muffin tin.
Enjoy these delightful bites that combine the classic flavors of macaroni and cheese with the convenience of a portable snack!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a muffin tin with butter or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a medium-sized pan over medium heat, melt the ¼ cup of salted butter until fully melted.
Step 3: Add Flour and Spices
Whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of white ground pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 4: Incorporate Milk
Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while continuously whisking. Bring the mixture to a boil, and once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
Step 5: Add Cheeses
Stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and ¾ cup of shredded white cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce has thickened.
Step 6: Combine with Macaroni and Breadcrumbs
Fold in the cooked and drained 8 ounces of macaroni noodles and ⅓ cup of Panko breadcrumbs into the cheese sauce until everything is well combined.
Step 7: Fill Muffin Tin
Spoon the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup generously.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
Step 9: Cool the Bites
Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the bites cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set.
Step 10: Serve the Bites
Carefully remove the bites from the muffin tin and serve warm as a delicious snack or side dish.
Notes
Storage Recommendations
Leftover macaroni bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
These macaroni bites can be served with marinara sauce for dipping or enjoyed on their own as a tasty appetizer.
Customization Options
Feel free to customize the recipe with additional ingredients like cooked bacon, diced vegetables, or different types of cheese to suit your taste.
Cook techniques
Melting Butter
Melt the butter in a medium-sized pan over medium heat, ensuring it does not brown. This creates a rich base for your cheese sauce.
Whisking for Smoothness
Whisk flour into the melted butter along with salt, garlic powder, and white ground pepper. This step helps create a smooth roux, which is essential for thickening the cheese sauce.
Creating a Roux
Continue to whisk until the mixture is well combined and smooth. This roux serves as the foundation for your sauce, providing both flavor and thickness.
Thickening the Sauce
Pour in whole milk and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. This gradual heating prevents scorching and allows the sauce to thicken properly.
Incorporating Cheese
Stir in shredded sharp cheddar and white cheddar cheese until melted. This forms a creamy cheese sauce that envelops the macaroni.
Combining Ingredients
Fold the cooked macaroni noodles and Panko breadcrumbs into the cheese sauce until well combined. Ensure every piece of pasta is coated for maximum flavor.
Baking in Muffin Tin
Spoon the macaroni mixture into a coated muffin tin, filling each cup. This bestows a fun, bite-sized shape while ensuring even cooking.
Baking for Texture
Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. This step crisps up the outer layer, adding texture.
Cooling
Allow the baked bites to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing. This helps them set and prevents breaking during removal.
Serving
Carefully remove the bites from the muffin tin and serve warm. These bites are best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different flavors.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze the bites?
Yes, these bites can be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.
How do I reheat the macaroni bites?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
What can I serve with these bites?
These macaroni bites pair well with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a simple side salad.
Conclusion
The baked macaroni and cheese bites are a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked macaroni for a comforting treat. The addition of Panko breadcrumbs gives them a satisfying crunch, making them perfect for a snack or a side dish at any gathering. These bites are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, resulting in a dish that is sure to please crowds of all ages.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon
Incorporate crispy bacon bits into the macaroni mixture for a savory and indulgent twist.
Vegetable Mac and Cheese
Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted peppers to the mixture for a colorful and nutritious boost.
Sriracha Macaroni and Cheese
Mix in some Sriracha sauce for a spicy kick that complements the creamy cheese.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Stir in cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce for a zesty, hearty option.
Truffle Mac and Cheese
Drizzle truffle oil over the prepared bites before baking for an elegant finish.
Mac and Cheese with Italian Sausage
Include crumbled Italian sausage for a flavorful and protein-packed variation.
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Macaroni
Blend in artichoke hearts and spinach along with the cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
Transform the bites into a casserole by placing the mixture in a baking dish and layering with additional cheese before baking.
