Description
These Crispy Mac and Cheese Bites are a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese, perfect for parties or as a fun appetizer. Creamy and cheesy on the inside, with a crispy coating outside, they are sure to be a hit with everyone!
Ingredients
Scale
Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Coating:
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Nonstick cooking spray or oil for greasing
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter, whisk in flour to make a roux. Gradually add milk, cook until thickened. Stir in seasonings and cheeses until smooth. Remove from heat, fold in macaroni.
- Chill and Form Bites: Spread the mixture in a dish, refrigerate until firm. Cut into squares or form balls.
- Coat and Cook: Dip each piece in egg, coat with breadcrumbs. Bake or fry until golden and crispy.
Notes
- These bites can be made ahead and frozen before baking or frying.
- For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños to the mac and cheese mixture.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking or Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
