What type of pasta works best for these bites?

Small shapes like ditalini are ideal as they hold the cheese sauce well and fit perfectly into mini muffin tins.

Can I substitute the cheese used in the sauce?

Yes, Gruyère or other melty cheeses can replace cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Brushing the bites with an egg and milk mixture before dusting with panko breadcrumbs helps create a golden, crisp crust.

Grease the mini muffin tin thoroughly with cooking spray or oil before filling each cup.

Yes, you can assemble and store them chilled, then bake fresh to maintain their crispy texture.

Bite-sized, crispy mac and cheese treats featuring creamy cheese sauce and tender ditalini pasta, perfect for parties or snacking.

This recipe has become a family favorite whenever we need a quick appetizer that satisfies both kids and adults.

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)

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.

These mac and cheese bites are always a hit during family gatherings, bringing smiles all around.

Serve with warm marinara or ranch for dipping.

Saucepan, Whisk, Mixing bowls, Mini muffin tin (24-cup), Measuring cups and spoons, Spoon or small scoop

Contains milk, eggs, and wheat/gluten. Double-check cheese and breadcrumb labels for hidden allergens if needed.

Perfect for any occasion, these bites combine comfort and crunch with ease.

→ What type of pasta works best for these bites?: Small shapes like ditalini are ideal as they hold the cheese sauce well and fit perfectly into mini muffin tins.
→ Can I substitute the cheese used in the sauce?: Yes, Gruyère or other melty cheeses can replace cheddar for a different flavor profile.
→ How do I ensure a crispy coating on the bites?: Brushing the bites with an egg and milk mixture before dusting with panko breadcrumbs helps create a golden, crisp crust.
→ What’s the best way to prevent the bites from sticking to the pan?: Grease the mini muffin tin thoroughly with cooking spray or oil before filling each cup.
→ Can these bites be prepared in advance?: Yes, you can assemble and store them chilled, then bake fresh to maintain their crispy texture.