Save to Pinterest Bite-sized, crispy mac and cheese treats featuring creamy cheese sauce and tender ditalini pasta, perfect for parties or snacking.
I first made these bites for a family gathering and they were an instant hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 200 g (7 oz) ditalini pasta
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 240 ml (1 cup) whole milk, 120 g (1 cup) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 60 g (½ cup) shredded mozzarella cheese, 30 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, ½ tsp Dijon mustard, ¼ tsp ground black pepper, ¼ tsp salt
- Coating: 1 large egg, 60 ml (¼ cup) milk, 80 g (1 cup) panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, ½ tsp smoked paprika, Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with cooking spray or oil.
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Roux:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce:
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened, about 2–3 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Fill Muffin Tin:
- Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared mini muffin cups. Gently press down to compact.
- Prepare Coating:
- In a small bowl, whisk egg with milk. In another bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, and smoked paprika.
- Coat Bites:
- Brush the tops of the bites with the egg mixture, then sprinkle generously with the panko mixture.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, until golden and crisp. Cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then gently loosen and remove. Serve warm.
Save to Pinterest My family loves sharing these at game nights and parties, making each bite a fun and delicious moment together.
Substitutions
Swap cheddar for Gruyère or add cooked bacon bits to the cheese sauce for a savory twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm marinara or ranch dressing for dipping to enhance the flavors.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy finish.
Save to Pinterest These mac and cheese bites are the perfect blend of creamy and crispy, guaranteed to please any crowd.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta is best for these bites?
Ditalini pasta works perfectly due to its small size and tubular shape, allowing the cheese sauce to coat each piece evenly.
- → How do I achieve a crispy coating?
Brushing the bites with an egg and milk mixture before sprinkling with panko breadcrumbs and smoked paprika helps create a golden, crunchy texture when baked.
- → Can I prepare these bites in advance?
You can assemble the bites ahead of time and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving for the best crispness.
- → What alternatives can I use for cheddar cheese?
Gruyère provides a rich flavor, or mixing in cooked bacon bits can add a savory twist to the cheese sauce.
- → Are these bites suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these bites are vegetarian-friendly as they contain no meat and include vegetarian ingredients only.
- → What dips complement these bites?
Warm marinara or ranch dressings pair well, enhancing the cheesy, savory flavors of the bites.