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Pumpkin-Shaped Mac and Cheese Bites

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Festive pumpkin-shaped mac and cheese bites with creamy, cheesy pasta wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb shell, perfect for fall gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Green onion stalks, for garnish
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, forming a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
  4. Add the cheddar cheese and cream cheese, stirring until melted and fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  6. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mac and cheese mixture into small balls (about 1.5 inches in diameter). Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.
  7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the coating by mixing breadcrumbs and paprika in one bowl and beaten eggs in another.
  8. Roll each mac and cheese ball in the egg mixture, followed by the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.
  9. Place the coated balls back onto the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
  10. Cut green onion stalks into small pieces to resemble stems. Insert one into the top of each bite to complete the pumpkin look.

Notes

Chill the bites before coating to help them maintain their shape during baking. Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and add green onion stems just before serving for the freshest look.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pumpkin-shaped mac and cheese bites, fall appetizer, festive snack, kid-friendly recipe, cheesy bites

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/pumpkin-shaped-mac-and-cheese-bites-recipe-you-must-try/