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Baked Mac and Cheese Cups

Baked Mac and Cheese Cups: Cheesy Bites Everyone Will Love

These Baked Mac and Cheese Cups are a delightful and gluten-free twist on the classic, perfect for snacking or as a kid-friendly appetizer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 cups
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta use shells, elbows, or gemelli
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Butter can substitute with non-dairy butter for vegan options
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced, substitute with garlic powder if desired
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt adjust according to taste
  • 0.125 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper omit for a milder flavor if preferred
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour can substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free option
  • 1 cup Whole Milk use any milk alternative for dairy-free versions
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese shred cheese from a block for better melting
For the Topping
  • 0.25 cup Breadcrumbs use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a suitable substitution

Equipment

  • Muffin tin
  • medium saucepan
  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin with butter.
  2. Bring salted water to a rolling boil in a large pot and cook 8 ounces of pasta until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, add 2 cloves of minced garlic, and sauté for 1 minute. Whisk in 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/8 teaspoon of ground black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of flour, cooking for another minute.
  4. Slowly pour in 1 cup of milk while continually stirring until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
  5. Remove from heat and fold in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
  6. Gently mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.
  7. Fill each greased muffin cup with the mac and cheese mixture, pressing down lightly.
  8. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs evenly over the top of each filled muffin cup.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These bites are perfect for snacking and make an excellent appetizer. Allow to cool slightly before removing to maintain shape.

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