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Before diving into the heart of this delicious recipe, it's crucial to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your mini mac and cheese muffin cups bake evenly, giving you that perfect golden-brown crust on top. Additionally, take a moment to grease your muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or butter. This step is essential to prevent the muffins from sticking, making it easier to remove them once they are baked. A well-greased muffin tin will ensure a flawless presentation and a delightful experience when serving your cheesy bites.

Mini Mac and Cheese Muffin Cups

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these mini mac and cheese muffin cups! Perfectly portioned and packed with creamy cheese and tender pasta, these bite-sized treats are a fun twist on the classic dish. With a crispy breadcrumb topping and rich flavors, they're ideal for parties, gatherings, or cozy nights in. Simple to make and utterly delicious, these muffin cups will delight cheese lovers of all ages. Try this easy recipe and bring joy to your table!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 cup milk (whole or 2%)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

Cooking spray or additional butter for greasing muffin tin

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or a light spread of butter to ensure easy removal later.

    Cook the Elbow Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes. Once done, drain the macaroni and set it aside.

      Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot used for the macaroni, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a light golden brown.

        Incorporate Milk and Seasonings: Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking to avoid any lumps. Keep whisking for about 4-5 minutes or until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly combined.

          Melt the Cheeses: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and add in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

            Combine with Cooked Macaroni: Carefully fold the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece of pasta is well coated in that creamy cheesy goodness.

              Fill the Muffin Cups: Using a spoon, generously fill each muffin cup with the mac and cheese mixture, making sure to fill them all the way to the top.

                Prepare the Topping: In a small mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter for added richness. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated, then sprinkle this mixture over the top of each muffin cup. Top with a little extra shredded cheddar cheese for a delicious cheesy crust.

                  Bake to Perfection: Carefully place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops are golden brown and crispy.

                    Cool & Serve: Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the muffin cups to cool for about 5 minutes. Use a sharp knife to gently loosen the edges, then carefully pop each mini mac and cheese muffin out. Serve warm for the ultimate cheesy snack!

                      - Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 12 muffin cups

                        - Presentation Tips: For an appealing finish, serve the muffin cups on a vibrant platter and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Enjoy your cheesy bites!