Creamy Mac and Cheese Muffins

In the realm of home cooking, few things evoke warmth and nostalgia like comfort food. It’s the kind of food that wraps you in a hug, offering not just nourishment but a delightful trip down memory lane. Whether it's a rainy day, a family gathering, or simply a need for something hearty and satisfying, comfort food plays a pivotal role in our everyday lives. Among the plethora of comfort food options, Cheesy Dreams Muffins stand out as a unique and innovative twist on the beloved classic: macaroni and cheese.

Explore the comfort of Cheesy Dreams Muffins, a delicious twist on classic macaroni and cheese. These innovative muffins pack the rich, gooey flavors of mac and cheese into a convenient, portable treat perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and versatile, they can be enjoyed as a hearty snack, a satisfying side dish, or even a brunch centerpiece. Dive into this nostalgic recipe and create a delightful culinary experience for family and friends.

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Ingredients

1 cup elbow macaroni

1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

½ cup mozzarella cheese, grated

½ cup cream cheese, softened

1 cup milk

2 large eggs

½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for crunch)

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin generously with cooking spray or butter.

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.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Stir until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, 1 cup of sharp cheddar, and ½ cup of mozzarella. Stir until all the pasta is coated with the creamy mixture.

Beat the Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then fold them into the macaroni mixture until fully incorporated.

Fill the Muffin Tins: Spoon the macaroni mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of sharp cheddar and breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crispy finish.

Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the muffins have set.

Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Enjoy! These creamy mac and cheese muffins can be served warm as a delightful snack or as a savory side dish.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

20 minutes | 45 minutes | 12 muffins