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Cheesy, crispy, and protein-packed packed! These Easy Mac and Cheese Bites are the ultimate snack or appetizer. They’re low in calories, tasty and so fun to make!
About This Recipe
You all know I’ve been on a serious mac and cheese kick and these Easy Mac and Cheese bites are straight up fire. They are the perfect party appetizer, snack or kid-friendly meal!
Plus, you won’t believe how easy they are to make! And did I mention they’re only 41 calories per bite?
These bites are so great for your next football party, summer get-together or snack night with friends! But I also love whipping up a batch and serving with my favorite protein for a macro-balanced meal.
These bites are kid-friendly, adult-friendly and will leave everyone wanting more!
Why You’ll Love These Mac and Cheese Bites
- Made with simple, staple ingredients!
- EASY to make and the taste is absolutely OUT OF THIS WORLD!
- They are fun – kids love making and eating these! And okay, adults too (I am raising my hand here)
- Just 40 calories per bite! Say whhhaaaaaaat!
- Packed with protein – not only are these mac and cheese bites low in calories, but they also have more protein than your standard mac and cheese.
- Macaroni – I used elbow macaroni noodles but any short pasta will work! Use gluten-free noodles if needed
- Butter
- Flour – I used all-purpose flour. Use gluten-free flour if needed. My favorite gluten-free flours to bring about the most similar flavor and texture both Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 and King Arthur’s Measure for Measure.
- Seasoning: salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning
- Milk – I used fat free milk but any milk works. Use dairy-free if needed
- Yellow mustard – prepared
- Cheese – I used sharp cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese. I HIGHLY recommend using freshly shredded cheese for the best taste and consistencys
- Egg
- Panko breadcrumbs – use gluten-free if needed
To make gluten-free: use gluten-free pasta, gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs
To make dairy-free: use dairy-free milk and dairy-free cheese
Equipment Needed
- 6qt. stockpot
- Colander
- Muffin pan
- Cheese grater (optional)
How To Make
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a couple of mini muffin pans with cooking spray (enough for 36 bites, or you can do multiple batches).
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Helpful Tips
I HIGHLY recommend you use freshly shredded cheese if possible! It really helps make the cheese flavor pop and it melts so much better!
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Of course! Any short grain pasta or noodle will work! I used elbow macaroni for the classic macaroni look but truly anything works! You can also use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber or chickpea pasta for a little extra protein. Use gluten-free pasta if needed!
Do I really need to shred the cheese?
You can use pre-shredded cheese but I HIGHLY recommend using freshly shredded. I cannot explain to you the difference it makes it taste and creaminess! I know it’s an extra step but I promise you won’t regret it. Sometimes you can find freshly shredded cheese in the deli section for a quick alternative!
What should I serve with these mac and cheese bites?
These easy mac and cheese bites make an excellent appetizer for almost any occasion! They pair great with these 3 Ingredient Meatballs or Bang Bang Chicken Minis! If you want to use these mac and cheese bites for a meal, I would pair with these Baked Chicken Nuggets or Air Fryer Grilled Chicken!
More Mac and Cheese Recipes You’ll Love
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Easy Mac and Cheese Bites
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles or any pasta of choice! Use gluten-free if needed
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour use gluten-free if needed
- 1/2 tsp each: salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning
- 1.25 cups fat free milk or milk of choice
- 1 Tbsp yellow mustard prepared
- 1.25 cup sharp cheddar cheese (70g) freshly shredded
- 1.25 cup mozzarella cheese (70g) freshly shredded
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
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Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a couple of mini muffin pans with cooking spray (enough for 36 bites, or you can do multiple batches).
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and season with salt to taste. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes, or according to package directions. Then run over cold water and drain. Set aside.
- Set a saucepan to medium heat and melt the butter. Add the flour, salt, garlic powder and Italian seasoning and stir to combine. Then add the milk and whisk well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and allow to cool down briefly before whisking in the mustard and egg. Then whisk in both cheeses (save 1/4 of each for the topping). Finally, fold in the cooked macaroni and toss with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to the muffin pan. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs and remaining cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Then let bites cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing (this will help them stay together).
- Serve with chicken nuggets, grilled chicken or by themselves with a yummy dipping sauce if desired!
Equipment
- Cheese grater optional
Notes
Nutrition Information
Nutrition is hand-calculated and accurate. No autocalulations! However, note that values can vary based on the brands you use and if you substitute ingredients.
