These Baked Mac and Cheese Bites are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, they're cheesy, crispy, and incredibly easy to make. Each bite is packed with creamy mac and cheese flavor, making them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin.
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
Slowly whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, and paprika. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens.
Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined.
Scoop the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup to the top.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of each macaroni cup.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy on top.
Allow to cool for a few minutes, then carefully remove from the muffin tin and serve warm.
Notes
Variations: Add cooked bacon or chopped vegetables to the mac and cheese for extra flavor.Tips and Tricks: Make sure to let the bites cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin for easier handling. You can also freeze the uncooked bites and bake them directly from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.