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Crispy Cheesy Baked Mac and Cheese Cups

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These crispy cheesy baked mac and cheese cups are a quick, easy, and delicious snack or party bite with a perfect crunchy exterior and gooey cheesy interior.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (200 grams) elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 cups (200 grams) shredded cheese blend (sharp cheddar and mozzarella recommended)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or 2%
  • 2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons (15 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • Pinch of pepper, or to taste
  • 1 cup (100 grams) crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper
  • Optional: chopped parsley or chives

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups (200 grams) elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons (15 grams) all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth and bubbling.
  3. Gradually whisk in 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, stirring constantly. Simmer gently until thickened, about 4-5 minutes, coating the back of a spoon.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups (200 grams) shredded cheese, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper until cheese melts and sauce is creamy.
  5. In a large bowl, fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  6. Grease a 12-cup muffin pan with non-stick spray or butter.
  7. Divide the cheesy macaroni evenly among muffin cups, pressing down lightly to compact.
  8. Sprinkle 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs over each cup.
  9. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake cups for 20-25 minutes until tops are golden brown and crisp, and cheese sauce bubbles around edges.
  10. Let cups cool in pan for 5 minutes before gently removing with a spatula. Serve warm.

Notes

Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushy cups. Whisk flour and butter thoroughly before adding milk to prevent lumps. Grease muffin tins well to prevent sticking. Let cups rest after baking to firm up. Add a splash of milk if cheese sauce is too thick before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheesy snacks, party food, crispy mac and cheese cups, easy mac and cheese

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/crispy-cheesy-baked-mac-and-cheese-cups-easy-recipe-for-perfect-snacks/