Mac and Cheese Cups are a fun, portable twist on the classic mac and cheese. Baked in muffin tins, these cheesy, creamy cups are perfect for holidays, lunch boxes, or any occasion where easy serving is key. They are crispy on top, cheesy on the inside, and an absolute crowd-pleaser!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow pasta

• 2 tablespoons Panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan

• 1 ½ teaspoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup milk

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 large egg, beaten

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or coat with nonstick spray.

2. Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions. Drain well.

3. For the topping, combine Panko, Parmesan, and olive oil; set aside.

4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

5. Whisk in flour and cook until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.

6. Stir in shredded cheese until melted, about 2-3 minutes. Add the beaten egg and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Spoon the pasta mixture evenly into the muffin tin. Sprinkle with the Panko topping.

8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped chives if desired.

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 200 per cup

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Protein: 9g

• Fat: 10g

• Sodium: 320mg

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugars: 3g

Why Choose Mac and Cheese Cups?

While traditional mac and cheese is comforting and satisfying, serving it in a muffin tin as individual cups adds an entirely new layer of appeal. The convenience factor is a big win—each cup is pre-portioned, making them perfect for busy weeknights, packed lunches, picnics, or even parties. Plus, their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve as appetizers or snacks, without the need for utensils or bowls.

The best part is that these Mac and Cheese Cups are incredibly customizable. Whether you prefer extra cheesy, crispy tops, or like to add a twist of spices or herbs, these cups can be tailored to suit anyone’s tastes. They also make a great dish to prepare ahead of time, freeze, and reheat later when you need a quick snack or meal.

The Making of the Perfect Mac and Cheese Cups

Creating these delicious Mac and Cheese Cups begins just like any other mac and cheese recipe: cooking the pasta. The elbow pasta is the perfect size for these cups, offering bite-sized comfort in every mouthful. Once the pasta is cooked and drained, it’s time to turn it into the cheesy, creamy filling that makes these cups irresistible.

A rich, velvety cheese sauce is the base of the filling. Butter is melted in a saucepan, and garlic is sautéed to infuse the oil with a fragrant, savory aroma. The addition of flour creates a roux that thickens the sauce as milk is gradually whisked in. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, melted into the sauce, creates that signature mac and cheese creaminess, while the beaten egg binds everything together, ensuring that each cup holds its shape once baked.

The Topping: Crispy and Savory

A key element that elevates Mac and Cheese Cups is the crispy topping. The Panko breadcrumbs, combined with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a touch of olive oil, create a golden, crunchy layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy interior. This crispy topping adds texture and an extra layer of flavor that makes each bite even more satisfying. The Parmesan cheese brings a sharp, savory kick that complements the richness of the cheddar cheese, providing the perfect finishing touch to the cups.

Baking the Cups to Perfection

Once the pasta mixture is placed into a muffin tin, it’s time to bake. The individual portions cook evenly, ensuring that each Mac and Cheese Cup gets perfectly golden and crispy on top. Baking at a high temperature (425°F or 220°C) ensures that the outside is nice and crispy, while the inside remains creamy and rich. After about 18-20 minutes, the Mac and Cheese Cups are ready to be served—crispy on top, cheesy on the inside, and ready to be devoured.

Nutritional Benefits of Mac and Cheese Cups

While Mac and Cheese Cups are certainly indulgent, they offer a decent nutritional profile for a comfort food dish. Each cup contains approximately 200 calories, making it a relatively moderate snack or appetizer. With 9 grams of protein per cup, these tasty bites help provide a good amount of muscle-building protein, thanks to the cheese and egg.

Additionally, the pasta provides a source of carbohydrates for energy, while the fats from the cheese and butter help to create a rich and creamy texture. Though these cups are a bit indulgent, their portion-controlled size makes them easier to enjoy in moderation.

Customizing Mac and Cheese Cups

While this recipe is already delicious as written, there are many ways to customize your Mac and Cheese Cups to suit your tastes. If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to swap out the sharp cheddar for another variety, such as Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses. For those who like a little heat, adding some cayenne pepper, paprika, or chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture will give the cups a spicy kick.

For added flavor, you can stir in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even caramelized mushrooms into the filling. These additions not only boost the flavor but also introduce new textures, making each bite even more interesting. For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese options.

Serving Suggestions for Mac and Cheese Cups

Mac and Cheese Cups are great on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve them with a fresh salad, such as a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the cups. These mac and cheese bites also go well with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or even a side of garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.

For a fun twist, try pairing the cups with a dipping sauce, such as a creamy ranch, marinara, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. These sauces add another layer of flavor and make for an interactive eating experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best things about Mac and Cheese Cups is that they can be made ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for meal prep. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the tops again. Alternatively, you can freeze the cups for later use. To freeze, place the cooled cups on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven for 20-25 minutes.

Conclusion

Mac and Cheese Cups are a creative and fun twist on the classic mac and cheese, offering all the creamy, cheesy goodness in a convenient, portable form. Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or casual gatherings, these bite-sized delights are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these cups are easy to make, highly customizable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, the next time you crave mac and cheese, try making these delicious Mac and Cheese Cups—you’ll love the crispy top, cheesy interior, and portable convenience!