Butternut Squash Hidden Mac Bites
These golden baked macaroni bites hide pureed butternut squash inside a crispy parmesan crust making them the ultimate finger food for toddlers and school-age kids alike. They are easy to make ahead and reheat beautifully for busy weeknight dinners or lunchboxes.
Crispy baked macaroni bites with butternut squash hidden in every cheesy golden bite.
Nutrition per serving
Ingredients
hidden veggie
base
cheese
crust
binder
seasoning
Instructions
Mix the Filling
In a large bowl combine the butternut squash puree, cooked macaroni, mozzarella cheese, beaten eggs, and onion powder. Stir until every piece of pasta is coated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
Fill the Muffin Tin
Grease a 12-cup mini muffin tin thoroughly with cooking spray. Spoon the macaroni mixture firmly into each cup pressing down with the back of a spoon to compact it so the bites hold their shape after baking.
Top with Parmesan and Bake
Sprinkle the grated parmesan generously over the top of each filled cup. Bake at 375 degrees F for 22 to 25 minutes until the tops are golden and crispy and the edges pull away from the pan.
Cool and Release
Allow the bites to cool in the pan for 5 full minutes before running a butter knife around each edge to release them cleanly. Serve warm with marinara sauce or ketchup for dipping.
Substitutions
Common mistakes
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