These Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Bites are a cheesy dream! Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, they pack a punch of flavor that will make your taste buds dance.
These bites are perfect for parties or just a snack at home. I love popping them in the oven and enjoying them fresh out—who can resist that gooey cheese? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Gouda Cheese: This cheese brings a rich, smoky flavor that’s difficult to replicate. If you can’t find it, try using regular gouda, or even a mix of mozzarella and a touch of smoked paprika to mimic that smokiness.
Elbow Macaroni: While elbow macaroni is classic for mac and cheese, feel free to use any small pasta shape like shells, cavatappi, or even gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a great crunch. If you want to use regular breadcrumbs, be sure to season them for added flavor. Crushing crackers or chips also makes a fun topping!
Milk: Whole milk is best for creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% or even plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk if you’re looking for dairy-free options. Just make sure it’s unsweetened.
How Do I Get My Mac And Cheese Bites Crispy on the Outside?
A big key to achieving that crispy texture is in two parts: the panko breadcrumbs and the baking technique. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to coat the bites evenly in breadcrumbs. Press them lightly to help them stick.
- Bake them at the right temperature (375°F) until golden brown—about 20-25 minutes is usually perfect.
- For an extra crunch, consider spraying a light mist of cooking spray over the bites before baking or adding a bit of melted butter to the breadcrumb mixture.
Letting them cool slightly after baking will also help firm them up and enhance that crispy crust!
Smoked Gouda Mac And Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded smoked gouda cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or additional butter for greasing muffin tin
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and approximately 25 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these tasty bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Tin:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, take a mini muffin tin, and grease it with some cooking spray or butter. This will help your bites come out easily after baking.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
Next, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it well once cooked, and set it aside for now.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of that raw flour taste. After that, gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
4. Add the Cheeses and Seasoning:
Remove the saucepan from heat and add in the shredded smoked gouda and sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to your liking.
5. Combine the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:
Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until every piece is well coated. Let this cheesy mixture cool for a few minutes so it’s easier to handle.
6. Prepare for Breading:
In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs, which will give your bites that perfect crispy crust.
7. Form the Bites:
Take a spoonful of the mac and cheese mixture and gently shape it into a small mound. Next, dip the mound into the beaten eggs, making sure to let any excess egg drip off. Then, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, coating it well.
8. Place in the Muffin Tin:
Carefully place each coated bite into the prepared mini muffin tin. Press them lightly to shape them if needed. Repeat this until you use up all the mixture.
9. Bake Until Golden:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes. Then, carefully remove the bites and transfer them to a serving platter. If you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. You can also pair these bites with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or a creamy garlic sauce.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Smoked Gouda Mac And Cheese Bites!
Can I Use Different Cheeses for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While smoked gouda adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend. Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices!
How Can I Make These Bites Extra Crispy?
To ensure extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the panko-coated bites with cooking spray or butter before baking. Additionally, consider broiling them for a couple of minutes at the end to achieve a golden brown crust, but watch closely to prevent burning!
Can I Freeze the Mac And Cheese Bites for Later?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked bites. After shaping and breading them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauces for Serving?
Great options for dipping sauces include ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, garlic aioli, or a creamy BBQ sauce. These add a delicious complement to the cheesy flavor of the bites.
