Mini Macaroni and Cheese Bites

Name: Mini Macaroni and Cheese Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz. elbow macaroni; 5 oz. garlic and herb cheese (like Boursin, Alouette, or herbed cream cheese); 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp. cold unsalted butter; 2 large eggs; 3/4 cups milk; 1/4 cup sour cream; Pinch of salt and pepper; 2 cups crushed Ritz Crackers; 6 tbsp. butter (melted); 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Posted on February 2, 2026

Mini macaroni and cheese bites served on a platter

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The moment the pan hit the heat, the aroma of melting cheese and savory butter wafted through the kitchen, pulling everyone in with a promise of comfort food bliss. Imagine golden-brown, crispy bites filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, perfectly portioned for snacking or as a side dish. These Mini Macaroni and Cheese Bites not only satisfy a hearty craving but also bring smiles to every gathering.

What makes this recipe shine is its delightful balance of textures and flavors. The crunchy Ritz cracker crust pairs beautifully with the rich, gooey filling, creating a symphony of tastes in each bite. Plus, they are incredibly versatile! Whether you serve them at a party, as an after-school snack, or side dish for dinner, they always impress. As one of my readers put it: “These bites are like a warm hug for the soul!”

Let’s dive into how these delicious morsels come together. You’ll be mastering your kitchen skills in no time. The process starts with the creamy cheese mixture combined with al dente macaroni, all nestled in a buttery, crunchy crust. You’ll need to keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure they bake to perfection—golden and crispy outside, with a cheesy interior that melts in your mouth. Trust me, these bite-sized wonders are worth every step.

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these irresistible bites:

12 oz. elbow macaroni (you may have a little left over)
5 oz. of garlic and herb cheese (like Boursin, Alouette, or herbed cream cheese)
2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp. cold unsalted butter
2 large eggs
3/4 cups milk
1/4 cup sour cream
Pinch of salt and pepper
For the crust:
- 2 cups crushed Ritz Crackers
- 6 tbsp. butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses or a different type of cracker if you desire.

To start off, preheat your oven to 375 degrees and give two mini muffin tins a light spray with cooking spray. The next step involves creating that scrumptious crust: melt 6 tablespoons of butter and mix it with the crushed Ritz crackers and half a cup of cheddar cheese. Take about 1 teaspoon of this buttery mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of each mini muffin tin. You want a crust that comes up slightly on the sides to hold all the cheesy goodness.

Now, it’s time for the macaroni! Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling water until it’s just shy of al dente. Drain it, then toss it into a large bowl. Add the herbed cheese, sharp cheddar, sour cream, milk, eggs, and cold butter—along with that pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until the cheeses are starting to melt and the mixture is smooth, with no large clumps remaining.

Spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of this creamy mixture on top of the prepared crusts in each muffin tin. Bake them in your preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the tops are golden. Once done, it’s crucial to let them rest for at least 10 minutes to prevent crumbling. After that, gently run a knife around the edges before removing each bite. Serve them warm and enjoy the smiles they bring!

Mini Macaroni and Cheese Bites

When it comes to serving these Mini Macaroni and Cheese Bites, presentation can elevate the experience. Consider serving them on a rustic platter, garnished with finely chopped chives or a sprinkle of paprika for color. They pair wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables, adding a nice crunch and freshness to the meal.

To keep any leftovers fresh, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Reheating is a breeze! Simply pop them back in the oven at 350 degrees until warm, which helps maintain that delightful crunch.

Here are a few expert tips to ensure your bites are a hit every time:

For an extra cheesy surprise, consider adding a cube of cheese inside each bite before baking.
Don’t rush the chilling process! Giving them a few minutes to set in the pan makes a significant difference in their sturdiness when removing.
If you want to make these ahead of time, you can assemble them and freeze before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
For a unique twist, consider incorporating cooked vegetables or meats into the filling, like cooked spinach or crispy bacon.
Taste your filling mixture before spooning it into the crusts—this way, you can adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Feel free to experiment and make these bites your own. You can swap the cheeses for different flavors, add some cooked lobster for a luxe twist, or use whole wheat crackers for a healthier base. The possibilities are endless!

Mini Macaroni and Cheese Bites

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free pasta or crackers for this recipe?
Absolutely! Simply swap the elbow macaroni and Ritz crackers with gluten-free alternatives, and you’ll have a delicious dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

How do I know when the macaroni is al dente?
You’ll know the elbows are ready when they have a slight bite to them. That means they’ll continue to cook when mixed with the other ingredients and during the baking process.

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them in the tins, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for a few hours or even overnight before baking. If you freeze them, remember to bake from frozen, and adjust the time as needed.

These Mini Macaroni and Cheese Bites are sure to be an instant favorite in your household. Grab your ingredients and get ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful little bite of cheesy goodness!