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Easy Mac and Cheese Cups Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 87 reviews

These Easy Mac and Cheese Cups transform leftover mac and cheese into crispy, golden baked muffins perfect for a snack or side dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, they combine creamy mac and cheese with a crunchy panko topping seasoned with paprika, baked until irresistibly golden and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups leftover Mac and Cheese (cooled to room temperature)
  • 1 egg (lightly beaten)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any preferred cheese such as mozzarella or gouda)

Topping

  • 2 1/2 tablespoons panko bread crumbs
  • 1/2 tablespoon melted butter
  • 1 pinch paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 425° F. Spray a 6-cup muffin pan generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the cooled leftover mac and cheese, lightly beaten egg, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated to ensure the cups hold together when baked.
  3. Fill Muffin Pan and Add Topping: Spoon the mac and cheese mixture evenly into the greased muffin cups, pressing down gently to compact. In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of paprika, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the tops of each filled cup to create a flavorful, crispy crust.
  4. Bake: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are a deep golden brown and crispy.
  5. Cool and Remove: Once baked, allow the mac and cheese cups to cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes. Run a butter knife around the edges of each muffin to loosen them, then gently lift the cups out of the pan for serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute the cheddar cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different flavor profiles.
  • Ensure the leftover mac and cheese is at room temperature before mixing to help the egg and cheese bind properly.
  • For extra crispiness, add a little extra melted butter to the panko topping.
  • These cups can be reheated in a toaster oven or oven to maintain crispiness.

Keywords: mac and cheese cups, baked mac and cheese, leftover mac and cheese recipe, easy snack, cheesy muffins, panko topping

Find it online: https://reemcook.com/easy-mac-and-cheese-cups-recipe/