What type of pasta works best?

Ditalini pasta is preferred for its small size and texture, which holds the cheese mixture well and fits perfectly in mini muffin tins.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, substituting cheddar with Gruyère or adding bacon bits can enhance flavor, offering savory or richer cheese profiles.

The combination of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and smoked paprika brushed with an egg-milk wash creates a golden, crunchy crust when baked.

Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) to regain crispiness without drying out the cheese interior.

These snacks contain milk, eggs, and wheat/gluten. Always verify ingredient labels to avoid hidden allergens.

Whisk the flour into melted butter carefully, then gradually add milk while whisking constantly. Simmer until thickened to ensure smoothness.

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

I first made these bites for a family gathering and they disappeared fast everyone loved them.

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 bites quickly became a favorite at family parties bringing everyone together over a shared love of cheesy goodness.

Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping to add extra zing and creaminess.

Swap cheddar for Gruyère or add cooked bacon bits to the cheese sauce for a savory twist.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Enjoy these crispy cheesy bites fresh out of the oven for the best flavor and texture.

→ What type of pasta works best?: Ditalini pasta is preferred for its small size and texture, which holds the cheese mixture well and fits perfectly in mini muffin tins.
→ Can I use different cheeses?: Yes, substituting cheddar with Gruyère or adding bacon bits can enhance flavor, offering savory or richer cheese profiles.
→ How to make the coating crispy?: The combination of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and smoked paprika brushed with an egg-milk wash creates a golden, crunchy crust when baked.
→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?: Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) to regain crispiness without drying out the cheese interior.
→ Are there any common allergens?: These snacks contain milk, eggs, and wheat/gluten. Always verify ingredient labels to avoid hidden allergens.
→ Tips for making cheese sauce lump-free?: Whisk the flour into melted butter carefully, then gradually add milk while whisking constantly. Simmer until thickened to ensure smoothness.