Description
Delight in these crispy mac and cheese bites, perfectly golden on the outside and gooey inside—ideal for any gathering or a cozy night in!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling:
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Coating:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil water in a large pot. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 2. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour until smooth to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- 3. Combine Everything
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce. Mix well until every noodle is coated. Stir in eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- 4. Form Your Bites
- Using your hands or an ice cream scoop, form small balls (about one inch in diameter) from the cheesy mixture. Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs until well-coated.
- 5. Bake Them Up
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange mac and cheese bites on it. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- 6. Serve & Enjoy
- Transfer bites onto plates while still warm. Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 bites (approximately 90g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 95mg