These Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Bites are the ultimate cheesy snack! Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, they pack a delightful smoky flavor that’s hard to resist.
When I make these, I can’t help but sneak a few while they cool. Who can wait? Perfect for parties or a cozy night in—everyone will be reaching for more! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic shape is great for holding onto the cheese sauce. If you prefer something different, consider mini shells or cavatappi, which also work well.
Smoked Gouda Cheese: The star of the show! It adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you can’t find smoked Gouda, regular Gouda or even a combination of Monterey Jack and smoked paprika can give you a similar taste.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds a nice tangy flavor. Feel free to swap it with mild cheddar for less sharpness, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a wonderful crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, though you might miss out on that extra crispiness.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Mac and Cheese Bites?
The secret to achieving a crispy exterior lies in the coating and baking process. Here’s how to master it:
- Ensure the mac and cheese mixture cools slightly before forming the bites. This helps them hold their shape when baking.
- When breading, make sure to fully coat each bite in the egg wash and panko. Press down gently to help the crumbs stick.
- Bake at the right temperature—375°F (190°C) is perfect. This allows the bites to crisp up nicely without burning.
Lastly, don’t skip letting them cool slightly before serving! This gives them time to firm up and makes them easier to eat.
Smoked Gouda Mac And Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Dipping sauce of choice (such as ranch or aioli)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll need around 45-60 minutes to have these delightful bites ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the elbow macaroni and cook until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 6-7 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, stir in 2 tablespoons of flour. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to form a roux that’s lightly golden.
3. Add the Milk:
Slowly whisk in 1 ½ cups of whole milk to the roux. Keep cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens up, which will take about 5-7 minutes. You’re looking for a creamy texture.
4. Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings:
Take the saucepan off the heat, then stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a bit of salt and pepper. Next, add the shredded smoked Gouda and cheddar cheese. Stir it all together until the cheese melts into a smooth, delicious sauce.
5. Mix the Mac and Cheese:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until everything is well coated. Allow the mixture to cool slightly; this will make it easier to handle.
6. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
7. Assemble the Bites:
In one bowl, beat the 2 large eggs. In another bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs. Using a spoon or a small scoop, fill each cavity of the mini muffin tin with the mac and cheese mixture. Then, dip each filled scoop into the beaten eggs and coat it in panko breadcrumbs. Press them down gently back into the muffin tin to help them hold their shape.
8. Bake the Bites:
Place the muffin tin into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, allow the bites to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin. You can garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like!
10. Enjoy with Dipping Sauce:
Serve these tasty bites warm alongside a dipping sauce of your choice, such as ranch or aioli. Enjoy your deliciously crispy, smoky mac and cheese bites!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While smoked Gouda gives a great flavor, you can use regular Gouda, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar for a different taste. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly!
Can I Make These Mac and Cheese Bites Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply use gluten-free elbow macaroni and substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure to also use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for coating.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. You can also use a microwave, but keep in mind they won’t be as crispy!
Can I Freeze Mac and Cheese Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking! If freezing before baking, just prepare them up to the baking step and place them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. If you’ve already baked them, allow them to cool completely before freezing and then reheat directly from the freezer for best results.
