Zucchini Mac & Cheese Bites

In the world of comfort food, few dishes hold the same beloved status as mac and cheese. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness evoke a sense of nostalgia, making it a staple in many households. However, as health-conscious eating becomes increasingly popular, many are seeking ways to enjoy classic recipes while incorporating more nutrition. Enter zucchini mac & cheese bites—an innovative and delicious adaptation of the traditional dish. These bites not only satisfy cravings for cheesy comfort but also sneak in a serving of vegetables, making them a perfect choice for both adults and children.

Discover a healthier twist on a classic favorite with these Zucchini Mac & Cheese Bites. Perfect for satisfying your cheesy cravings while sneaking in some veggies, these bites offer a delicious balance of indulgence and nutrition. Easy to prepare, they’re great as snacks, appetizers, or party food. Packed with flavor from a blend of cheeses, zucchini, and spices, these bites are sure to please both kids and adults. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save for later!

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Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, grated and drained

1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

½ cup parmesan cheese, grated

1 large egg

½ cup milk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned works well)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchinis using a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, twist, and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Set aside.

Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Cheese Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. Stir in the egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Combine Ingredients: Add the drained zucchini and cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Prepare the Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Shape the Bites: Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, portion out the mixture and form compact balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Once all the mixture is shaped, gently press down on each ball to flatten slightly.

Coat with Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the flattened bites, ensuring an even coating. For extra crunch, gently press the crumbs into the bites.

Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Serve: Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley for color. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or ranch dressing.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 35 mins | 24 bites