Name: Mac and Cheese Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked macaroni; 2 tbsp butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups milk; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp onion powder; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg, beaten; Olive oil spray

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Mac and Cheese Bites are crispy, golden nuggets filled with creamy, cheesy macaroni. I bake them to perfection for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, snack, or party finger food that delivers the ultimate comfort in every bite.

Mac and Cheese Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to turn a classic dish into a fun, bite-sized treat that everyone enjoys. The outside gets perfectly crispy while the inside stays soft, creamy, and cheesy. I make these for parties, game days, or lazy movie nights, and they never disappoint. Plus, I can prepare them ahead of time and even freeze them. They’re customizable, kid-friendly, and always a hit at the table.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups cooked macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, beaten
Olive oil spray

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a saucepan, I melt the butter over medium heat, add flour, and whisk to make a roux.
I slowly add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
Then I stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. I keep stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
I mix the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni until fully coated, then let it cool a bit.
Once cool, I form the mixture into small balls.
I dip each ball into the beaten egg and coat it with breadcrumbs.
I place the balls on the baking sheet and spray them lightly with olive oil.
I bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
I always serve them warm, with a favorite dipping sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6–8 servings
Calories: About 250 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Jalapeño: I mix in finely diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
Veggie Boost: I sometimes add finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or peas for extra color and nutrients.
Truffle Style: A drizzle of truffle oil in the cheese sauce turns these bites into a gourmet treat.
Gluten-Free: I use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for an allergy-friendly option.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. For longer storage, I freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, I bake them directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

How do I keep the mac and cheese mixture from falling apart?

I make sure the mixture is cooled slightly before shaping and press each ball firmly. The egg and breadcrumbs help bind them together.

Can I deep-fry these instead of baking?

Yes, I sometimes deep-fry them for an extra crispy bite. I heat oil to 350°F and fry the bites in batches until golden, about 2–3 minutes.

What dipping sauces go well with these bites?

I love serving them with marinara, ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo. Honey mustard and barbecue sauce are also great choices.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often prep and shape the bites ahead, then refrigerate or freeze them until I’m ready to bake or fry.

What cheeses can I substitute for cheddar and Parmesan?

I like using mozzarella, Gruyère, Gouda, or even pepper jack for different flavors. Mixing cheeses adds depth to the bites.

Conclusion

Mac and Cheese Bites bring together the comfort of creamy macaroni with the fun of crispy finger food. I make them when I want something indulgent, easy to serve, and guaranteed to be devoured. With a little prep and creativity, I can tailor these bites to any taste or occasion. Whether I’m feeding kids, impressing guests, or just treating myself, these bites are always a winner.