Pin it Bite-sized, crispy mac and cheese treats featuring creamy cheese sauce and tender ditalini pasta, perfect for parties or snacking.
I first made these mac and cheese bites for a family gathering and they were gone within minutes everyone loved them!
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
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) Grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with cooking spray or oil
- Step 2:
- Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente Drain and set aside
- Step 3:
- In a saucepan over medium heat melt butter Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute
- Step 4:
- Gradually add milk whisking constantly to avoid lumps Simmer until thickened about 23 minutes
- Step 5:
- Reduce heat to low Stir in cheddar mozzarella Parmesan Dijon mustard black pepper and salt Mix until smooth and creamy
- Step 6:
- Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated
- Step 7:
- Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared mini muffin cups Gently press down to compact
- Step 8:
- In a small bowl whisk egg with milk In another bowl combine panko Parmesan and smoked paprika
- Step 9:
- Brush the tops of the bites with the egg mixture then sprinkle generously with the panko mixture
- Step 10:
- Bake for 1518 minutes until golden and crisp Cool in the tin for 5 minutes then gently loosen and remove Serve warm
Pin it My kids especially love helping shape the bites and they're great for family parties or afternoon snacks.
Notes
For extra flavor add a pinch of cayenne to the cheese sauce Swap cheddar for Gruyère or add a handful of cooked bacon bits for a savory twist Serve with warm marinara or ranch for dipping
Required Tools
Saucepan Whisk Mixing bowls Mini muffin tin (24-cup) Measuring cups and spoons Spoon or small scoop
Allergen Information
Contains milk eggs and wheat&gluten Double-check cheese and breadcrumb labels for hidden allergens if needed
Pin it These mac and cheese bites are perfect for any occasion and easy to make ahead of time.
Common Questions
- → What pasta works best for these bites?
Ditalini pasta is ideal due to its small size and shape which holds the cheese sauce nicely, but other small short-pastas can be substituted.
- → How do I get a crispy coating?
Brushing the bites with an egg and milk wash before coating with panko breadcrumbs ensures a golden, crunchy exterior when baked.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the bites and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.
- → What can I serve with these bites?
Warm marinara sauce or ranch dressing complements the cheese flavors perfectly as dipping options.
- → Are there any allergen concerns?
These bites contain dairy, eggs, and gluten, so check ingredient labels carefully if you have specific allergies.