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If you’re in search of a fun, bite-sized twist on the classic comfort food, look no further than these Mini Mac and Cheese Muffin Cups. This recipe transforms the beloved mac and cheese into an irresistible snack or side dish, perfect for any occasion. With creamy cheese nestled in a perfectly baked muffin cup, these cheesy bites are sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

Mini Mac and Cheese Muffin Cups

Discover the ultimate comfort food with these Mini Mac and Cheese Muffin Cups! Perfect as snacks or sides, these bite-sized treats transform classic mac and cheese into a fun, portable version. With creamy cheese and golden crusts, they're sure to delight everyone. Easy to make ahead and customize with your favorite ingredients, these muffin cups are perfect for parties or lunchboxes. Enjoy the nostalgia of mac and cheese in a new, flavorful way!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 cup milk (whole or 2%)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

Cooking spray or additional butter for greasing muffin tin

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or butter.

    Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden brown.

        Add Milk and Spices: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

          Incorporate Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth.

            Combine with Macaroni: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated.

              Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into prepared muffin cups, filling them almost to the top.

                Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over each muffin cup, followed by a small handful of shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy crust.

                  Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.

                    Cool & Serve: Remove from the oven and let the muffin cups cool for about 5 minutes before carefully using a knife to pop them out. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful mini mac and cheese bites!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 12 muffin cups