Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe
These Mac and Cheese Bites are crispy, golden mini mac and cheese muffins, baked to perfection with Roth Grand Cru cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. A fun, bite-sized appetizer perfect for parties, game days, and kid-friendly meals.
A Fun Twist on Classic Mac and Cheese
Mac and Cheese Bites are mini, crispy, cheesy versions of the classic comfort food, made in a muffin tin for easy portioning and serving. These baked bites combine creamy mac and cheese with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping, making them an irresistible appetizer, snack, or kid-friendly meal option. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and perfect for parties, game days, or even lunchbox treats.
This homemade mac and cheese bites recipe features elbow pasta coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made with butter, milk, and Roth Grand Cru cheese, then baked into crispy, golden perfection. The best part? They are portable and mess-free, making them a great addition to any gathering or meal prep routine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick prep.
Perfect for Parties – Bite-sized portions make them great for sharing.
Kid-Friendly – A fun way to serve mac and cheese.
Crispy on the Outside, Creamy Inside – The perfect balance of textures.
Freezer-Friendly – Great for meal prep and easy reheating.
Servings
This recipe makes 36 mac and cheese bites, serving about 8 people.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftover mac and cheese bites in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm them in the microwave for 1 minute or oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Freezing: Freeze in a single layer for at least 4 hours, then transfer to an airtight bag. Bake at 350°F for 5 minutes to reheat.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Mac and Cheese Bites
Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Pack the Mac and Cheese Well – This helps hold the bites together when baked.
Let Them Cool Slightly Before Removing – This prevents them from falling apart.
Customize the Toppings – Add crumbled bacon, jalapeños, or extra cheese.
Use Gluten-Free Pasta if Needed – Works great for a gluten-free option.
A Brief History of Mac and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese dates back to 14th-century Europe, with early recipes found in Italian and English cookbooks. It became widely popular in the United States thanks to Thomas Jefferson, who encountered pasta in France and brought it back home. Over time, mac and cheese evolved into a comfort food staple, with countless variations—including these crispy, baked mac and cheese bites.
Commonly Asked Questions
1. Can I make these mac and cheese bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them ahead, refrigerate, and reheat before serving.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack all work well.
3. Can I make these without breadcrumbs?
Yes, but the breadcrumbs add extra crispiness. Try crushed crackers for a substitute.
4. What if I don’t have a mini-muffin tin?
Use a regular muffin tin for larger portions, but increase the bake time by 5-7 minutes.
5. Can I make these mac and cheese bites gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and flour, and substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs.
These Mac and Cheese Bites take classic mac and cheese to a whole new level, offering a cheesy, crispy, and bite-sized experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, meal prepping, or just craving a delicious snack, this recipe delivers rich, creamy flavors with a satisfying crunch.
Try this easy baked mac and cheese bites recipe, and enjoy a crowd-pleasing appetizer that everyone will love.
Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese Base:
8 ounces elbow pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon mustard powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 ¼ cups 2% milk
2 cups Roth Grand Cru cheese, shredded
For the Topping:
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Muffin Tin
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease two mini-muffin pans with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the elbow pasta according to package instructions (about 7-9 minutes), then drain and set aside to cool.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Stir in the flour, garlic powder, and mustard powder; cook for 2 minutes until combined.
Gradually whisk in the milk, season with salt, and continue stirring.
Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in shredded Roth Grand Cru cheese until fully melted.
Step 4: Assemble the Mac and Cheese Bites
Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into each mini-muffin cup.
Use the back of a spoon to lightly pack the mixture down.
Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
Let the bites cool for 5-10 minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin.
Serve warm and enjoy!