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Crispy Sheet Pan Mac and Cheese Bites Easy Kid Lunch Box Recipe

crispy sheet pan mac and cheese bites - featured image
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These crispy mac and cheese bites are crunchy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside, perfect for kid lunch boxes and quick snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 200g) dry elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 200g)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50g)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480ml) whole milk or 2%
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, fresh ground
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 cup (about 100g) breadcrumbs, preferably panko
  • 1 large egg, beaten

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line your sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth and creamy.
  6. Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni thoroughly. Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes.
  7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a large mixing bowl and stir in the beaten egg and breadcrumbs until combined.
  8. Using a spoon or lightly wet hands, scoop about 1.5 tablespoons (20g) of the mixture and shape into tight balls. Place evenly spaced on the prepared sheet pan (about 24 bites).
  9. Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar and a few breadcrumbs on top of each bite.
  10. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy, rotating the pan halfway through.
  11. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack or lunch container.

Notes

Chill the shaped bites in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape. Cover loosely with foil if tops brown too quickly. Store leftovers in a single layer with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Reheat in oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes for best crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese bites, kid lunch box recipe, crispy mac and cheese, sheet pan recipe, easy snack, cheesy bites

Find it online: https://crispcraving.com/crispy-sheet-pan-mac-and-cheese-bites-easy-kid-lunch-box-recipe/