Killer BBQ Tailgate Mac ‘n’ Cheese Bites

Allergens

Wheat (gluten), Dairy

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked macaroni pasta
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store
• bought)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, barbecue sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure even coating of the sauce.
3. Spoon the macaroni mixture into each muffin tin compartment, filling about two thirds full. Press gently to form a bite sized shape.
4. In a small bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the macaroni bites, followed by a generous layer of the buttered breadcrumbs.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 20 minutes, or until golden brown and sizzling. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Chef’s Insight

For an extra smoky kick, add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika to the macaroni mixture before baking.

Notes

For an even more intense BBQ flavor, consider using homemade barbecue sauce.