Mini Mac & Cheese Bacon Cups

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. However, just when you thought this beloved classic couldn't get any better, enter Mini Mac & Cheese Bacon Cups. This innovative recipe takes all the flavors and textures we adore about traditional mac and cheese, transforming it into bite-sized portions that are not only delicious but also incredibly fun to serve. Perfect for parties, game days, or cozy family gatherings, these mini cups are sure to impress your guests and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Get ready to indulge in a fun twist on a classic comfort food with Mini Mac & Cheese Bacon Cups! These bite-sized delights combine creamy macaroni and cheese with crispy bacon, creating a crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and customizable, they can be tailored to suit any palate, from adding veggies to experimenting with different cheeses. Impress your guests and satisfy everyone with this irresistible dish that combines rich flavors and delightful textures in every cup!

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Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni

4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or butter.

Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.

- Gradually whisk in the whole milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.

Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:

- In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, adding in the crumbled bacon and stirring until evenly combined.

Fill the Muffin Tins: Scoop the mac and cheese mixture into each muffin cup, filling them to about 3/4 full.

Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over each mac and cheese cup.

Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.

Cool and Serve: Allow the mini mac & cheese cups to cool for a few minutes before carefully running a knife around the edges and gently popping them out. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 12 servings