Prep Time 15 minutes Cook Time 15 minutes
Who doesn't love mac and cheese? These little bite-sized beauties disappear fast when they hit the table at my house. Add your own twist to these mac and cheese bites by adding your favorite flavors. Try adding a cup of peas for a kid-friendly lunchbox treat or did someone say bacon mac and cheese bites and football season? There's a bite of awesomeness for your gameday feast!
by Meredith Steele
What you'll need
- 1/2 pound (2 cups) elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
Notes:
makes 48
Variations:
Try adding cooked and chopped bacon, shredded chicken, or vegetables during step 4 for a different twist!
How to make it
- Preheat oven to 400°F and arrange the oven racks in the upper and bottom thirds. Grease two mini muffin tins with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Set aside until needed.
- In a sauce pot over medium heat, combine butter and flour. Whisk until butter is melted and mixture is smooth, about 1 minute. While whisking, slowly add milk and bring to a simmer. Add 1 1/2 cup of cheese, cream cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook until smooth and creamy. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, stir to combine pasta, cheese sauce, and egg. Spoon mac and cheese into muffin tins and top each with a small pinch of remaining cheese. Place one tin on the upper rack and one on the bottom. Bake for 15 minutes, switching the positions of the tins once during baking. Remove tins and allow to cool 5 minutes before gently removing the bites. Serve.
