Crispy Baked Mac Cheese Bites (Printer-Friendly)
Golden baked macaroni bites with creamy cheese and crispy panko coating, perfect for snacking or party appetizers.
# List of Ingredients:
→ Macaroni and Cheese
01 -
Cold prepared macaroni and cheese, 1.5 tablespoons per bite
→ Coating
02 -
All-purpose flour, for dredging
03 -
Eggs, whisked
04 -
Panko breadcrumbs, toasted
05 -
Salt, to taste
# Preparation Steps:
01 -
Spread panko breadcrumbs evenly on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 400°F for 5-6 minutes, stirring halfway through until golden brown. Remove and cool before using.
02 -
Scoop cold macaroni and cheese using a cookie scoop (approximately 1.5 tablespoons) and gently roll into uniform balls by hand to ensure even cooking.
03 -
Place formed balls on a baking sheet or muffin tin and freeze for 15 to 20 minutes until firm to facilitate coating.
04 -
Set up three shallow dishes: one with all-purpose flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with toasted panko breadcrumbs combined with salt.
05 -
Dip each frozen macaroni ball first into flour, then into the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with the toasted panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure adhesion.
06 -
Arrange breadcrumb-coated balls on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes until edges turn golden and crispy.
# Additional Suggestions:
01 -
For best results, chill macaroni and cheese thoroughly before shaping. Toasting the breadcrumbs enhances crispiness. Freezing balls prior to coating prevents them from falling apart.
02 -
These bites can also be cooked in an air fryer at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes in small batches for a quicker preparation.