Kid Approved Thanksgiving Foods: Cheesy Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe
When it comes to Thanksgiving, finding dishes that both kids and adults will love can be a challenge. This is why we've come up with a recipe for Cheesy Mac and Cheese Bites that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, requiring just 15 minutes of your time. These bite-sized morsels of macaroni and cheese are the perfect kid-friendly side dish for your Thanksgiving feast, combining the comforting goodness of mac and cheese with a fun, bite-sized format that kids will adore.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It's an excellent way to get kids involved in the cooking process, teaching them about measurements and mixing. Moreover, you can easily customize the recipe to fit your family's tastes, whether that means adding some diced ham for extra protein or mixing in some steamed vegetables to increase the nutritional value.
Why This Recipe Works
👨🍳 Easy to Prepare
This recipe is designed to be quick and straightforward, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
👧 Kid-Friendly
The mac and cheese bites are a fun twist on a classic favorite, sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
📦 Customizable
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make the dish your own, from adding meats to mixing in various cheeses.
🕒 Time-Efficient
With a preparation and cooking time of just 15 minutes, this recipe is ideal for last-minute additions to your Thanksgiving menu.
Ingredients
- 1 cup macaroni
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Add the lightly beaten egg to the macaroni mixture and stir until the egg is fully incorporated and the mixture is sticky.
- Step 4: Using your hands, shape the macaroni mixture into small balls, about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 balls.
- Step 5: Roll each ball in the panko breadcrumbs to coat evenly, pressing the crumbs gently onto the macaroni balls to ensure they stick.
- Step 6: Place the coated mac and cheese balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll them around to ensure they're evenly coated with oil.
- Step 7: Bake the mac and cheese bites in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they're golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Step 8: Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving plate. Serve warm and enjoy!
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Macaroni
You can use other types of pasta if you prefer, but macaroni works best for this recipe due to its shape and size.
Consider using gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
Cheese
The combination of cheddar and mozzarella provides a creamy and stringy texture. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, like parmesan or provolone, for different flavors.
For a vegan version, consider using vegan cheese alternatives.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese Bites
🔥 Crispy Exterior
To achieve a crispy exterior, make sure the mac and cheese balls are fully coated in panko breadcrumbs and drizzle with enough olive oil before baking.
👩🍳 Make-Ahead
You can prepare the macaroni mixture and shape the balls ahead of time. Simply store them in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with the breading and baking steps the next day.
Variations & Customizations
Spicy Mac and Cheese Bites
Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the macaroni mixture for an extra kick of heat.
Bacon Mac and Cheese Bites
Crush some cooked bacon and mix it into the macaroni mixture for a smoky, savory flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Turkey - The classic centerpiece of Thanksgiving, pairs perfectly with the creamy mac and cheese bites.
- Mashed Potatoes - A comforting side that serves beautifully alongside the crispy bites.
- Green Bean Casserole - A traditional Thanksgiving side that completes the meal with its crunchy, savory goodness.
- Pumpkin Pie - For dessert, a slice of pumpkin pie rounds out the meal with its sweet, spiced flavor.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the mac and cheese mixture and shape the balls up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to bread and bake.
Freezer Storage
If you want to freeze the mac and cheese bites, it's best to do so after they've been baked. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why are my mac and cheese bites not crispy?
A: Ensure that the bites are fully coated in panko breadcrumbs and drizzle with enough olive oil before baking. Also, check your oven temperature, as uneven heating can affect crispiness.
Final Thoughts
The key to a successful Thanksgiving dinner is finding dishes that everyone will enjoy, and these Cheesy Mac and Cheese Bites are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Their blend of creamy mac and cheese filling enclosed in a crispy, golden exterior makes them an irresistible side dish for any meal, especially during the holidays. So why not give them a try this Thanksgiving and discover a new family favorite?
