These baked mac and cheese cups are the perfect bite-sized twist on a classic comfort food. They’re creamy, cheesy, and baked to a golden perfection—perfect for kids’ lunches, parties, or an easy weeknight dinner. With a crispy top and soft, cheesy middle, they’re a hit with the whole family.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce. Let cool slightly, then mix in the beaten egg.
- Spoon the mixture evenly into muffin cups, pressing down gently.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over each cup for a crispy topping.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until tops are golden and set.
- Cool in the pan for 5 minutes before removing. Serve warm.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 180 per cup
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
Kid-Friendly Appeal
Baked mac and cheese cups are a top choice for families, especially those with young children. Their small, handheld size makes them easy for little hands to hold and eat, reducing mealtime mess. The familiar cheesy flavor appeals to even the pickiest eaters, while the crispy tops add a fun texture kids enjoy.
Perfect for Meal Prep
These mac and cheese cups store well in the refrigerator and freezer, making them a smart option for meal prepping. You can bake a full batch ahead of time and have lunch or dinner ready to go for several days. They’re easy to reheat in the microwave or oven without losing flavor or texture.
Portion Control
Because these cups are baked in a muffin tin, each serving is pre-portioned. This makes it easier for families to manage serving sizes and helps prevent overeating. It’s especially useful when feeding kids or watching calories without compromising flavor.
Versatile for Any Occasion
These cups work for more than just dinner. They’re a great choice for parties, potlucks, lunchboxes, or as after-school snacks. Their bite-sized form makes them portable and convenient, so they’re just as great for adults as they are for kids.
Customizable Flavors
One of the best things about baked mac and cheese cups is how easy they are to customize. You can mix in cooked bacon, diced veggies, shredded chicken, or different cheeses to suit your preferences. This allows you to adapt the recipe to what’s in your pantry or cater to different dietary needs.
Great Way to Use Leftovers
These cups are also a creative way to use up leftover macaroni and cheese. Instead of letting it go to waste, repurpose it into a fun new form. Adding a little extra cheese and an egg can revive day-old mac and cheese into something totally different and delicious.
Easy for On-the-Go Lifestyles
In today’s fast-paced world, recipes that fit into a busy schedule are essential. These mac and cheese cups can be packed into lunchboxes, eaten in the car, or brought to work. They’re mess-free, handheld, and don’t require utensils, which makes them ideal for on-the-go meals.
Appeals to Adults Too
While designed with kids in mind, these baked cups are satisfying for adults as well. The creamy, cheesy interior and golden-brown top offer a nostalgic comfort food experience that many adults appreciate. You can easily elevate the recipe with gourmet cheeses or a touch of spice.
Ideal for Picky Eaters
If you’re dealing with a child who resists trying new foods, these cups can serve as a gateway to other meals. The familiar look and taste make them less intimidating, and you can sneak in small amounts of veggies or proteins without drastically changing the dish.
Nutritional Balance Tips
Although mac and cheese is often seen as indulgent, these cups can be made healthier with simple swaps. Using whole grain pasta, low-fat cheese, and adding pureed vegetables can boost the nutritional profile without sacrificing taste. They’re a great canvas for balanced eating.
Encourages Independence in Young Kids
Because of their size and simplicity, mac and cheese cups empower young children to eat independently. This supports the development of motor skills and builds confidence during mealtime. Kids may even enjoy helping to prepare them, turning it into a fun family activity.
Great for Batch Cooking
This recipe is naturally suited for batch cooking. Since a standard muffin tin has 12 slots, you can easily make a dozen servings at once. Double or triple the batch for parties or to stock your freezer with quick meals for weeks.
Perfect Texture Combination
What makes these cups stand out is their texture. The creamy interior contrasts with the slightly crispy edges and breadcrumb topping. This variety in texture makes the dish more interesting to eat and adds a gourmet feel to a kid-friendly classic.
Freezer-Friendly Option
After baking and cooling the cups, they can be wrapped individually and frozen for up to two months. This makes them a great option for busy families looking to plan ahead. To reheat, just pop them in the oven or microwave and they’re ready in minutes.
Party-Ready Finger Food
Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, holiday dinner, or casual gathering, baked mac and cheese cups make a great addition to your menu. Guests can grab one without needing utensils, and they can be served warm or at room temperature.
Lunchbox Winner
These cups hold up well in lunchboxes and can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them perfect for school lunches. Add a fruit, veggie, and drink, and you have a complete, satisfying midday meal your child will look forward to.
Affordable and Pantry-Friendly
Mac and cheese cups are made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients that are often already in your pantry. Pasta, cheese, milk, and butter are staples in most households, which makes this recipe both economical and accessible.
Quick Weeknight Meal
On nights when time is tight, these cups offer a fast solution. You can have them ready from start to finish in about 30 minutes. They save time without sacrificing that homemade flavor and comfort.
Crowd-Pleaser for All Ages
Whether you’re serving toddlers, teens, or adults, these mac and cheese cups are always a crowd favorite. Their familiar flavor and fun presentation make them a reliable go-to when feeding a group.
Conclusion
Baked mac and cheese cups are a delightful combination of comfort, convenience, and versatility. Their kid-friendly size, satisfying flavor, and portability make them perfect for a wide range of occasions. From school lunches to party platters, they consistently deliver. By tweaking the ingredients, they can become a healthier option or an elevated dish for more refined palates. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping for the week ahead, these cups prove that classic comfort food can come in small, delicious packages.
