Print

Mac and Cheese Pizza Bites

Mac and Cheese Pizza Bites
Print Recipe

Creamy, cheesy Mac and Cheese Pizza Bites combine the comforting flavors of classic mac and cheese with pizza toppings in a perfect bite-sized snack. Easy and quick to make, these irresistible appetizers are ideal for parties, game nights, or anytime you crave a savory, gooey treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Macaroni and Cheese Base

  • 1 cup elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Toppings

  • Pepperoni slices (enough to top each bite)
  • Breadcrumbs (about ½ cup)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Cooking the pasta to the right texture is key as it will continue to cook slightly when baked.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. Gradually add milk while whisking until the mixture thickens. Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for that signature pizza flavor.
  3. Combine Mac and Cheese: Mix the cooked macaroni with the creamy cheese sauce until every piece is fully coated. This creates the luscious, cheesy base for the bites.
  4. Shape the Bites: Grease a mini muffin tin. Spoon a small amount of macaroni and cheese into each cavity. Top each with a slice of pepperoni and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before removing from the tin to keep their shape intact.

Notes

  • Stick to al dente pasta to prevent mushiness and keep the bites firm and delicious.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce and better melting.
  • Don’t overfill muffin tins to help the bites hold their form and make eating easier.
  • For a crispier topping, toss breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling.
  • Let bites cool slightly before removing to prevent them from falling apart.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, pizza bites, party snack, cheesy appetizer, quick snack

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/mac-and-cheese-pizza-bites/