Save Bite-sized, crispy mac and cheese treats featuring creamy cheese sauce and tender ditalini pasta, perfect for parties or snacking.
This recipe quickly became a favorite at family gatherings due to its crispy outside and gooey inside.
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 denti. Drain and set aside.
- Make Roux:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Add Milk:
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
- Mix Cheese Sauce:
- 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 These bites always bring smiles and requests for seconds during family get-togethers.
Notes
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.
Save Enjoy these crispy and creamy bites as a perfect snack or appetizer at any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta works best for these bites?
Small tubular pasta like ditalini is ideal for coating evenly with cheese sauce and fitting into mini muffin tins.
- → How can I achieve a crispy exterior?
Coating the bites with an egg wash and panko mixture before baking creates a golden and crunchy crust.
- → Can the cheese blend be customized?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with Gruyère or add bacon bits to enhance flavor and texture.
- → What is the best way to serve these bites?
They pair well with warm dipping sauces such as marinara or ranch dressing for added contrast.
- → How long should I bake the bites?
Bake for 15-18 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until the coating is golden and crisp.
- → Are these bites suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they contain no meat and rely on cheeses and spices for their rich flavor.