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Muffin Tin Mac & Cheese

Muffin Tin Mac & Cheese
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Muffin Tin Mac & Cheese is a delightful snack that combines the creamy comfort of classic macaroni and cheese with crispy, golden-brown edges in convenient, portion-controlled muffin cups. Perfect for snacking, parties, or quick meals, this easy-to-make recipe allows endless customization with veggies, meats, spices, and cheese variations. It caters to all ages and dietary preferences while delivering warm, cheesy goodness that’s easy to serve and enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 cup elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Topping

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour to make a roux and cook for about 1 minute. Slowly add milk while stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce thoroughly until every piece is coated evenly, forming the base filling for the muffin tins.
  4. Fill the Muffin Tin: Generously grease a muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray. Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into each cup, pressing down slightly to compact and help the muffins hold their shape.
  5. Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of each filled muffin cup. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the edges become golden brown and the centers bubble.
  6. Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before carefully removing them. Cooling helps them set and hold their shape for easier eating.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a rich flavor and excellent melting quality.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; al dente texture ensures the muffins hold together without becoming mushy.
  • Grease your muffin tin well with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  • Press the macaroni mixture firmly into the tin cups to ensure muffins maintain their shape when removed.
  • Let the muffins rest and cool before removing from the tin to avoid crumbling.
  • Bake until a golden crust forms on top with bubbling centers for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, muffin tin mac and cheese, bite-sized snack, cheesy muffins, party appetizer, kid-friendly snack, quick meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://withnora.com/muffin-tin-mac-cheese/