Creamy Mac and Cheese Cups

Mac and cheese is more than just a dish; it’s a nostalgic comfort food that has woven itself into the fabric of many culinary traditions. Known for its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this beloved classic often finds a place on dinner tables, at potlucks, and in the hearts of children and adults alike. However, as we continuously seek new ways to enjoy our favorite foods, the Cheesy Delight Mac and Cheese Cups present a fun and inventive twist on this timeless dish. Perfect for gatherings, kids’ lunches, or a cozy family dinner, these bite-sized cups bring a new level of enjoyment to a well-loved favorite.

Discover the joy of Cheesy Delight Mac and Cheese Cups, a delightful twist on a beloved classic! These bite-sized treats combine creamy and cheesy goodness with a satisfying crunch from panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for gatherings, kid-friendly lunches, or cozy family dinners, they bring warmth and nostalgia to the table. Customize them with your favorite ingredients, from veggies to different cheeses, and enjoy endless variations of this comfort food favorite!

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Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a robust boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux—a smooth paste that will thicken your sauce.

Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking while stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble gently.

Incorporate the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until all the cheese has melted completely, creating a luscious, smooth cheese sauce.

Flavor It Up: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to the cheese sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasonings to your preference.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring thoughtfully until every piece of pasta is well coated in the creamy goodness.

Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or a brush of olive oil to ensure easy release of the cups after baking.

Assemble the Cups: Spoon the macaroni and cheese mixture into each muffin cup, filling them almost to the brim. Aim for uniformity to ensure even baking.

Make the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of olive oil, tossing until the breadcrumbs are lightly coated. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of each mac and cheese cup for a delightful crunch.

Bake: Carefully place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Watch for the tops to turn golden brown and crispy.

Cool and Garnish: Once baked, allow the cups to cool in the tin for a few minutes. Use a small knife to gently run around the edges of each cup before lifting them out. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12 cups

- Presentation Tips: Serve the mac and cheese cups on a large platter, garnished with additional parsley. For a fun twist, offer small cups of hot sauce or specialty condiments on the side for guests to drizzle on top!