How to Make the Perfect Mac Cheese Bites
American · Easy · 35 min · 6 servings
Mac cheese bites turn the ultimate comfort food into a fun finger food that kids go crazy for in their lunchbox. These crispy baked bites are one of the most requested kid friendly recipes at school lunch time.
Why this recipe works
This Mac Cheese Bites recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 35 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 245 calories with 10g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 cups cooked macaroni and cheese
- 1 large egg beaten
- 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp butter melted
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Combine and Chill
Mix cooked mac and cheese with beaten egg and shredded cheddar until well combined then refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes so it firms up enough to shape.
Step 2: Shape Into Balls
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Scoop tablespoon portions of the chilled mixture and roll into balls then coat each ball in breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
Step 3: Bake Until Crispy
Place coated bites on a parchment lined baking sheet and bake for 18 to 20 minutes turning once halfway through until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 4: Cool and Pack
Allow bites to cool completely before packing into lunchboxes as they firm up more as they cool and are best enjoyed at room temperature.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- breadcrumbs → crushed crackers for a different crunch texture
- cheddar cheese → pepper jack cheese for kids who enjoy a mild kick
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not chilling the mixture long enough making the bites fall apart when shaped
- Skipping the halfway turn causing uneven browning on one side
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 245 calories, 10g protein, 30g carbs, 9g fat, 1g fiber.
Ready to cook?
Get the interactive recipe with adjustable servings, built-in timers, and ingredient checklist.
View full recipe →