Mac And Cheese Bites

Mac and cheese is one of those comfort foods that so many people love. These little mac and cheese bites are perfect for little hands to hold and eat!

I’m a mac and cheese lover and it really doesn’t have to be complicated to make! These mac and cheese bites require only a few ingredients and come together in one pot. They are great size for babies and toddlers and can be customized with added sources of protein and veggies!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Here is what you’ll need to make these mac and cheese bites:

• Pasta Noodles: I usualy use elbow noodles, but any type of small pasta noodle works well.
• Butter: To cook the peppers and onions.
• Onions/Peppers: For added flavor and texture.
• Milk: I use evaporated milk in this recipe, but any other type of milk works as well.
• Shredded Cheese: I use 4-cheese Mexican blend in this recipe, but any other type of shredded cheese may be used.

PROCESS

1. Boil the pasta noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside. 
2. Melt butter in a pan on medium heat.
3. Add in chopped onions and peppers and cook until soft.
4. Add in the milk and stir as it begins to bubble. 
5. Turn down the heat and add in the cheese. Stir until it is melted and the mixture thickens.
6. Add in the pasta noodles and toss to coat.
7. Pack into a mini muffin pan and sprinkle a little more cheese on top.
8. Bake at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

Once cooled, store bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through. To freeze, place the cooled bites in a freezer-safe Ziploc bag in an even layer and freeze for up to 2 months. 

SUBSTITUTIONS

• Milk: I used evaporated milk in this recipe, but you may replace it with whole milk, half and half milk, heavy cream, or a dairy free alternative, like coconut milk.
• Butter: For a dairy-free version, substitute with a non-dairy based butter.
• Cheese: For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheese for dairy-free shredded cheese.

RECIPE NOTES

• This recipe makes 24 mini bites. You can make regular-sized bites by adding a few more minutes to the total bake time.
• I like to use a silicone muffin pan to bake these bites as they pop out easily without any sticking. If using a regular mini muffin pan, be sure to coat with a cooking spray beforehand. Avoid using paper liners as these bites tend to stick. 
• Finely chop the onions and peppers as small as possible so that there aren’t too many large chunks.
• I used 4-cheese Mexican blend in this recipe, but feel free to use any type of cheese! Mozzarella cheese is a good low sodium option.
• Add salt and other seasonings for a bit more flavor if serving to adults. I usually make a batch for my baby and add salt and a little spice to a batch for everyone else!

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• Corndog Bites
• Egg Bites
• Berry Oat Bites