Back-to-school mac and cheese bites

Why Make This Recipe

Back-to-school season can be a busy time for families. Kids are getting back into the routine, and after-school snacks are essential to keep them going. Back-to-school mac and cheese bites are a fun and tasty way to keep kids energized. They combine the classic comfort of mac and cheese with a new twist. These bites are easy to prepare, snackable, and perfect for little hands. Plus, they are great for school lunches or quick snacks after school.

How to Make Back-to-School Mac and Cheese Bites

Ingredients:

1 cup elbow macaroni
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 large eggs (room temperature)
½ cup whole milk

Directions:

Cook macaroni: Boil water in a large pot. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Mix cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with cheddar cheese, milk, and eggs until well blended.
Preheat oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Form bites: Shape the macaroni mixture into small balls. Coat each ball in panko breadcrumbs.
Bake: Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
Serve: Let them cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Serve Back-to-School Mac and Cheese Bites

These mac and cheese bites are great served warm. Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces, like marinara, ranch, or even barbecue sauce. They can be served as a snack or an appetizer for a family gathering. Kids will love them, and they can be a perfect addition to school lunches.

How to Store Back-to-School Mac and Cheese Bites

If you have leftovers, store the mac and cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them before baking. Once frozen, place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Tips to Make Back-to-School Mac and Cheese Bites

Make sure to let the macaroni cool slightly before mixing with eggs to prevent them from cooking.
You can experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or gouda, for a different flavor.
For a crunchier bite, use more panko breadcrumbs or add some spices to the breading.

Variation

Add-ins can be a fun way to change up this recipe. You can mix in cooked bacon bits, chopped spinach, or any other favorite ingredients to make the bites even more delicious.