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Cheesy Bliss Baked Mac & Cheese Cups are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food that many of us know and love. These individual servings of creamy macaroni and cheese are perfect for parties, family dinners, or simply as a fun meal option that everyone will enjoy. With a rich blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, combined with a crispy breadcrumb topping, these baked cups offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of making these delicious mac and cheese cups, including ingredient highlights, preparation methods, and plenty of helpful insights.

Kid-Friendly Baked Mac and Cheese Cups

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Bliss Baked Mac & Cheese Cups! These individual servings are packed with creamy sharp cheddar and mozzarella, topped with a deliciously crispy breadcrumb layer. Perfect for parties or family meals, this fun twist on a classic dish is sure to delight everyone at the table. Discover how to make these mouthwatering cups with our step-by-step guide and impress your guests with this cheesy goodness.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup bread crumbs (for topping)

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Cooking spray or muffin liners

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using muffin tins, spray them with cooking spray or line with muffin liners.

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

      Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot (or a saucepan), melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, whisking constantly until bubbly. Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

        Add the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and salt and pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well-coated.

            Fill the Muffin Tins: Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared muffin tins, filling each cup to the top.

              Create the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese cups.

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

                  Cool and Serve: Remove the muffin tins from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Carefully remove the baked mac and cheese cups from the tin and serve warm.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12 cups