Ready in: 40 minutes · Serves: 12 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
These Mac and Cheese Cups are baked pasta bites filled with creamy cheese, perfect for gatherings.
As the bustling streets of New York City begin to embrace the crisp air of autumn, I find myself daydreaming about cozy gatherings filled with good company and comforting food. With Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner, I've been testing out dishes that bring people together, and these Mac and Cheese Cups have quickly become a highlight in my kitchen-perfect for holiday parties or casual family dinners.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for holiday gatherings, bringing everyone together over comfort food.
- Easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing for stress-free entertaining.
- Individual-sized servings make them ideal for parties and casual dinners.
- Rich, creamy cheese flavor that satisfies every mac and cheese lover.
- Customizable with different cheeses and add-ins, so you can make it your own!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious Mac and Cheese Cups:
For the Mac and Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the Topping
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Mac and Cheese Cups (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create delicious Mac and Cheese Cups that are sure to impress!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, savoring the scent of the salty water lingering in the air.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it starts bubbling and turns golden. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly as it thickens, for about 3-4 minutes, until creamy and smooth.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Cheese
Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is rich and velvety, causing your mouth to water with anticipation.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated, and enjoy the irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard muffin tin with non-stick spray or butter, preparing it for the mac and cheese mixture.
Step 6: Assemble the Cups
Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, fill each muffin cup with the mac and cheese mixture, pressing it down slightly to pack it well.
Step 7: Breadcrumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter and then sprinkle this mixture generously over the mac and cheese cups to create a delightful crispy topping.
Step 8: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Enjoy the sounds of bubbling cheese as the cups come to life.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the mac and cheese cups to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin, running a small spoon around the edges to help them pop out smoothly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the macaroni just until al dente; it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Not Whisking the Roux Thoroughly: Make sure to whisk the flour into the butter completely to avoid a lumpy sauce.
- Skipping the Breadcrumbs: Don't skip the topping! It adds a necessary crunch and texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mac and cheese.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Experiment with different cheeses! Mixing in Fontina or Gruyère will elevate the flavor.
- Consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed broccoli for extra texture and nutrition.
- Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Variations:
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Mix in jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Top with crushed potato chips for a different crunchy texture.
- Add a layer of diced tomatoes for a fresh twist.
How to Serve:
- Serve warm as a side dish at holiday gatherings.
- Offer them as appetizers at parties.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with additional cheese and herbs for presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare mac and cheese cups in advance and store in the fridge until ready to bake.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked mac and cheese cups for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Testing these Mac and Cheese Cups reminded me that simplicity often leads to the most delightful dishes. They are not only easy to prepare ahead of time but also a crowd-pleaser that brings a warm, nostalgic feeling to any gathering. Plus, they're the perfect individual portion size, making them ideal for holiday parties!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 12 cups · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 12g protein · 30g carbs · 10g fat
Recipe by:
Delicious Mac and Cheese Cups for Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it starts bubbling. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about a minute until fragrant. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly until creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and rich.
- Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard muffin tin with non-stick spray.
- Fill each muffin cup with the mac and cheese mixture, pressing it down slightly.
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle over the mac and cheese cups.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin.
Notes
FAQs
Can I make Mac and Cheese Cups ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese mixture and fill the muffin cups ahead of time. Simply cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake them. This makes them a convenient option for holiday gatherings.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking to mix up the flavors, consider using a combination of cheeses such as Fontina, Gruyère, or even a spicy pepper jack for an added kick. Just ensure to use a cheese that melts well for the best texture.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat your mac and cheese cups, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the oven will help retain the crispiness of the breadcrumb topping.
