Description
Crispy bacon-wrapped bites filled with creamy mac & cheese, perfect for parties or game day snacks.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- For Mac & Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Assembly:
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (garnish)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- 1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux (1 minute).
- 3. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly until smooth. Simmer until slightly thickened (3-4 minutes).
- 4. Reduce heat to low, stir in cheese until melted. Add seasonings and cooked macaroni. Mix well, then refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
- 5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 6. Scoop 1.5 tbsp mac & cheese, form into balls. Wrap each with 1 bacon slice, securing with toothpicks.
- 7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crispy, flipping halfway. Broil 1-2 minutes for extra crisp if desired.
- 8. Garnish with parsley. Serve warm with barbecue sauce.
Notes
• For spicier bites, add 1/4 tsp cayenne to cheese sauce. • Make ahead: Assemble unbaked bites, freeze on tray, then transfer to bags. Bake frozen (+5 mins). • Substitute turkey bacon for lighter version.