Save to Pinterest Bite-sized, crispy mac and cheese treats featuring creamy cheese sauce and tender ditalini pasta, perfect for parties or snacking.
This recipe has been a hit at every party I've hosted; everyone loves how easy they are to eat and how flavorful they taste.
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 2 & 3 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 15 & 18 minutes, until golden and crisp. Cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then gently loosen and remove. Serve warm.
Save to Pinterest These bites always bring the family together, especially when served fresh and warm during game nights.
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.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy these delicious bites fresh out of the oven for the best taste.
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta is best for these bites?
Ditalini pasta is ideal as its small size makes for perfect bite-sized pieces that blend well with the cheese sauce.
- → How do I achieve a crispy exterior?
Brushing the bites with an egg and milk mixture before coating with panko breadcrumbs ensures a golden, crispy crust when baked.
- → Can I substitute cheeses in the sauce?
Yes, Gruyère or other melting cheeses can replace cheddar for a different flavor, and adding bacon bits provides a savory twist.
- → Is it possible to prepare these ahead of time?
You can assemble the bites in advance and refrigerate them prior to baking to save time on serving day.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these bites?
Warm marinara, ranch dressing, or spicy aioli complement the cheesy and crispy texture nicely.
- → How do I ensure the cheese sauce is smooth?
Whisking flour and butter before gradually adding milk while stirring prevents lumps and creates a creamy base.