Mac and Cheese Bites are little golden treasures that bring comfort in a crunchy way! They’re made with creamy macaroni and cheese, breaded, and then baked or fried to perfection.
These bites are perfect for snacking or party treats. Seriously, who can resist cheesy goodness in a crispy coat? I always make extra because they disappear fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow macaroni: This classic pasta shape holds the cheese sauce well. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, you can swap it with small shells, fusilli, or even penne.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives these bites a great flavor. If you want something milder, try using medium cheddar or even a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for creaminess.
Grated Parmesan: This lends a nice saltiness and depth. If you’re out of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Milk: Whole milk makes the cheese sauce rich, but you can use 2% or almond milk in a pinch. Just note that the texture might be a bit different.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are great for a crunchier texture, but regular breadcrumbs work just fine too. If gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
How Do I Make the Cheese Sauce Smooth?
Making the cheese sauce can be tricky, but here’s a simple approach. The key is to whisk as you add the milk to prevent lumps. Start by melting the butter over medium heat, then add the flour to create a roux. This helps thicken the sauce nicely!
- Cook the roux for about a minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in your milk a little at a time, stirring constantly until you see it start to bubble and thicken (about 3-5 mins).
- Remove from heat before adding in your cheese so it melts smoothly without clumping.
Mac And Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For Breading:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking oil spray or neutral oil (for baking or frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, plus at least 2 hours of chilling time for the mac and cheese mixture. If you plan to refrigerate it overnight, it will set up beautifully for easy shaping!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set it aside to cool a bit.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to get rid of any lumps, and keep whisking until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble, which should take around 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until it’s smooth and melted.
3. Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
Carefully fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until it’s well coated. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a shallow dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have the time. This will help it firm up for easier shaping.
4. Form the Bites:
Set up an assembly line with three shallow bowls: one with flour (to make it easier to roll), one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Scoop out the chilled mac and cheese mixture and shape it into bite-sized balls (about 1.5 inches in diameter).
5. Breading the Bites:
First, roll each ball in flour (this step is optional but can help the coating stick better). Next, dip them into the beaten eggs and then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. For an extra crunchy texture, you can repeat the dipping in egg and breadcrumbs one more time!
6. Cook the Bites:
To fry: Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a heavy pot to 350°F (175°C) and fry the bites in batches until they’re golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
To bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the bites on it. Lightly spray with cooking oil, then bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping them halfway through cooking.
7. Serve:
Garnish your tasty Mac and Cheese Bites with chopped parsley and enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or a spicy ketchup. Trust me, these little bites of joy won’t last long!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Mac And Cheese Bites!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta can cook faster or slower depending on the brand.
Can I Freeze Mac And Cheese Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them before cooking! Arrange the breaded bites on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’re great for up to 2 months! When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Use for Dipping Sauces?
Classic marinara, ranch dressing, or spicy ketchup are all excellent options! You can also experiment with garlic aioli or a creamy cheese sauce for extra cheesy goodness.
How Do I Keep Mac And Cheese Bites Crispy After Cooking?
To keep them crispy, avoid stacking the bites too closely after cooking, as steam can make them soggy. If they need to sit for a few minutes before serving, place them on a wire rack in a warm oven to maintain their crunch!
