tiny mac and cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best tiny mac and cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my tiny mac and cheese recipe, a classic comfort food that never fails to put a smile on my family’s faces.

As a mom of three, I’ve had the pleasure of perfecting this recipe over the years, and it’s become a staple in our household.

The dish hails from the United States, where it’s been a beloved favorite for generations.

It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s easy to make and customize to your taste.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is always a hit with them – they can’t get enough of that creamy mac and cheese goodness!

Tiny Mac and Cheese Recipe

4.8 from 585 votes

This recipe creates tiny, bite-sized mac and cheese bites perfect for parties or snacks. Each tiny mac and cheese is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp butter (melted)

For the Cheese Sauce

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
3Add milk and melted butter, then mix until a soft dough forms.
4Knead the dough gently until smooth.
5Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
6Use a small cookie cutter or glass to cut out tiny circles.
7Re-roll the scraps and cut until all dough is used.
8Place the dough circles into a greased mini muffin tin, pressing them gently into the bottom and up the sides to form tiny cups.
9In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
10Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
11Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture bubbles slightly.
12Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.
13Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
14Spoon the cheese sauce into each dough-lined muffin cup, filling them about 3/4 full.
15Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
16While the mac and cheese bites are baking, mix panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a small bowl.
17Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of each mac and cheese bite.
18Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the topping is crispy and golden.
19Remove from the oven and let the mac and cheese bites cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
20Use a small knife to carefully loosen each bite from the muffin tin and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Muffin tin
Small saucepan

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 50mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.

Watch Video Of How Tiny Mac and Cheese Recipe Works

This tiny mac and cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s a perfect side dish for family gatherings, a quick lunch for kids, or a comforting meal for yourself. Plus, it’s easy to make and customizable to your liking.

Plus, it’s a good source of calcium and protein. The key to this recipe is using a small amount of cheese and milk. This makes the sauce creamier and richer.

I like to serve this tiny mac and cheese with a side salad or some fruit. It’s a balanced meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen and teach them about cooking.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tiny Mac and Cheese

1. What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using small shells or elbow macaroni for this recipe. These shapes hold onto the cheese sauce perfectly and make each bite a delight. You can also experiment with other shapes like penne or ditalini if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the traditional pasta with gluten-free alternatives like rice-based pasta or zucchini noodles. Be sure to check the ingredient labels for any cross-contamination risks.

3. How do I prevent the mac and cheese from becoming too dry?

To keep your mac and cheese moist, be sure to not overcook the pasta, as this will cause it to dry out quickly. Also, add more cheese sauce towards the end of cooking if needed – it’s better to have a little extra than not enough!

4. Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different types of cheese to create your perfect blend. Some popular options include cheddar, parmesan, mozzarella, or a combination of these.

5. How do I store leftover mac and cheese?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure it’s steaming hot throughout before serving.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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