Looking for a fun and delicious twist on the classic comfort food, mac and cheese? These Mac and Cheese Cups are the perfect solution. Individual servings of creamy, cheesy mac and cheese that are baked to perfection and crispy on top—what’s not to love? Whether you’re serving them as a fun appetizer, a side dish for a family meal, or a snack for a gathering, these bite-sized cups are sure to be a hit. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with these Mac and Cheese Cups. First, they’re convenient—no need for serving bowls or spoons. Each cup is a perfectly portioned serving that makes eating mac and cheese mess-free and easy. Plus, they’re customizable! You can add your favorite extras like bacon, veggies, or even swap out the type of cheese for a new twist on the classic flavor.
These cups also have the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy. The creamy mac and cheese filling is baked inside a golden, crispy shell, making every bite satisfying. You also get the added crunch from the Goldfish crackers on top, which bring a little extra flavor and texture to the dish. They’re also perfect for meal prepping, as you can store and reheat them easily.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Mac and Cheese Cups, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups elbow noodles
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 serving Goldfish crackers (about 1/4 cup or more for topping)
Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
Let’s Get Started
Making these Mac and Cheese Cups is quick and easy. Follow the steps below to create these delicious little servings of cheesy goodness:
1. Cook the Elbow Noodles
Start by cooking the elbow noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re cooked, drain them and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to make a roux (a thickening mixture). Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Add the Cheese and Seasoning
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth. Add the salt to season the sauce and adjust to your taste.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked elbow noodles into the cheese sauce, stirring to coat all the pasta in the creamy mixture. Make sure the noodles are well covered in cheese sauce.
5. Prepare the Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin with non-stick spray or lightly butter the cups. Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into each muffin cup, filling them about 3/4 of the way full.
6. Top with Goldfish Crackers
Crush the Goldfish crackers in a plastic bag or with your hands, then sprinkle the crumbs on top of each mac and cheese cup for added crunch and flavor.
7. Bake the Mac and Cheese Cups
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. You can check the texture with a toothpick to ensure the mac and cheese has set properly.
8. Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the mac and cheese cups cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows them to set and makes them easier to remove from the muffin tin. Use a spoon or small spatula to carefully lift them out and place them on a serving plate.
Servings and Pairing
This recipe yields about 12 mac and cheese cups, depending on the size of your muffin tin. They are perfect for serving at parties, family gatherings, or as a fun side dish to go with any meal. They also make a great snack or lunch option!
Pair them with:
- A Simple Salad: A fresh side salad with greens and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese cups.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve them with some roasted broccoli or carrots for a well-rounded meal.
- Garlic Bread: For even more comfort, garlic bread pairs perfectly with the cheesy cups.
Variations
These Mac and Cheese Cups are super versatile, so feel free to customize them based on your tastes. Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Add Bacon: For a savory twist, crumble some cooked bacon and mix it into the cheese sauce or sprinkle it on top before baking.
- Use Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a unique flavor.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate some cooked spinach, peas, or bell peppers into the mac and cheese mixture for a boost of color and nutrients.
- Spicy Mac and Cheese Cups: Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
Storage Tips
Mac and Cheese Cups are great for leftovers! Here’s how to store them:
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Refrigeration: After they’ve cooled, store the mac and cheese cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or in a warm oven before serving.
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Freezing: These cups freeze well for longer storage. To freeze, place the cooled cups on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen by baking in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make these Mac and Cheese Cups ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese cups and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven to bake as directed.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the elbow pasta with a gluten-free version. Just make sure to check the cooking time, as it may vary depending on the type of gluten-free pasta you choose.
How can I make these vegetarian?
To make the recipe vegetarian, simply omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead. This will keep the mac and cheese delicious while catering to vegetarian diets.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can double the recipe! If you’re making a larger batch, be sure to use a second muffin tin and adjust the baking time as needed to ensure all the cups bake evenly.
Final Thoughts
Mac and Cheese Cups are a fun, delicious, and easy way to enjoy one of your favorite comfort foods in a new form. Whether you’re hosting a party, making a snack for the family, or prepping meals for the week, these cheesy, bite-sized treats are sure to please everyone. With their creamy filling and crispy topping, they’re perfect for any occasion. Give them a try, and watch as these little cups of comfort steal the show!
