Description
These Easy Macaroni and Cheese Cups are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food favorite, perfect for parties, lunches, or a fun family dinner. Made with creamy Cheddar cheese, a hint of Parmesan, and a crispy panko breadcrumb topping, these baked cups deliver gooey, cheesy goodness in perfectly portioned servings.
Ingredients
Scale
Egg Mixture
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp paprika (or smoked paprika)
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
Macaroni and Cheese
- 1 and ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
- 3 cups cooked pasta (macaroni or your choice)
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven. Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully heat while you prepare the ingredients.
- Prepare Egg Mixture. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese if using, milk, salt, paprika, and black pepper until smooth. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Layer Cheese and Pasta. In a standard 12-cup non-stick muffin tin, place about 1 tablespoon (3/4 cup total divided among cups) of shredded Cheddar cheese at the bottom of each cup. Then, evenly distribute the cooked pasta among the cups, topping each with the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Add Egg Mixture and Breadcrumbs. Pour approximately 2 tablespoons of the egg mixture over the pasta and cheese in each muffin cup. Finish by sprinkling about 1 teaspoon of panko breadcrumbs on top of each cup, adding a nice crunchy texture.
- Bake. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the egg is set and the tops of the cups are nicely browned and crispy.
- Remove and Serve. Once baked, use a plastic knife or spatula to loosen the edges of each mac and cheese cup from the tin. Carefully pop them out and serve warm for a delicious, handheld cheesy treat.
Notes
- You can use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor twist.
- Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to prevent mushy cups after baking.
- Use non-stick spray on the muffin tin if not non-stick to help with easy removal.
- These cups can be reheated in a microwave or oven for a quick snack or meal.
- Feel free to add cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños to the mixture for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: macaroni and cheese, cheesy cups, baked macaroni, party appetizers, comfort food, easy recipe
