Name: Mini Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Bites Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Olive oil cooking spray; 2 cups elbow macaroni (8 ounces); 1 1/2 cups tiny broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk (warmed); 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 eggs (beaten)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 5 reviews

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing snack or a fun twist on a classic comfort food, this Mini Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Bites Recipe is going to be your new best friend. These little golden muffins pack all the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese with the added bonus of tender broccoli florets that sneak in some green and a subtle crunch. Perfectly portioned for parties, lunches, or anytime snacking, these bites turn an everyday dish into handheld deliciousness that’s as cute as it is comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of green broccoli florets boiling in clear, bubbling water inside a silver metal pot placed on a black electric hot plate, set on a white marbled surface. The broccoli pieces vary in size and are scattered evenly in the pot, with steam rising gently from the water. The setup highlights the freshness of the broccoli and the simple cooking process. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To make these irresistible Mini Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Bites, you only need a handful of simple, kitchen-staple ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from creating that rich, creamy texture to balancing flavors and adding a vibrant splash of green to bring the dish to life.

Olive oil cooking spray: Keeps the mini muffin tins non-stick so your bites pop right out without losing their shape.
2 cups elbow macaroni (8 ounces): The classic pasta shape that holds the cheesy sauce beautifully in every bite.
1 1/2 cups tiny broccoli florets: Adds a fresh, slightly crunchy texture and nutrition to balance the cheesy richness.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the luscious base for the cheese sauce while keeping it silky smooth.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Acts as the thickening agent to achieve that perfect mac and cheese consistency.
1 cup milk (warmed): Helps blend the cheese sauce smoothly without lumps and adds creaminess.
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese: Provides the signature bold, tangy flavor that makes mac and cheese so irresistible.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth to enhance the overall cheese complexity.
4 eggs (beaten): Binds the mixture together so your Mini Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Bites hold their shape perfectly after baking.

How to Make Mini Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Bites Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 375°F. Lightly spray the mini muffin pan with olive oil cooking spray. This simple step ensures your bites won’t stick, giving you that satisfying golden crust on the outside with creamy centers on the inside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a medium saucepan and cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente—firm but cooked through. Using a slotted spoon, scoop the pasta out and drain thoroughly to avoid sogginess later on.

Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli

Bring the pasta water back to a boil and quickly blanch the tiny broccoli florets for 1 to 2 minutes until they’re just tender but still bright and firm. Drain these well to prevent excess moisture in your bites.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly until smooth—this homemade roux is the secret to a perfect mac and cheese base. Then, slowly add the warmed milk while whisking to keep the sauce silky. Gradually stir in the sharp Cheddar and Parmesan cheese until everything melts into a rich, velvety sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Eggs

Remove your cheese sauce from heat and gently mix in the cooked macaroni. Then stir in the beaten eggs and blanched broccoli florets, folding everything together so each bite is bursting with cheesy broccoli goodness.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Spoon the mixture into your prepared mini muffin cups, filling each to the top. Bake for around 10 minutes, until the edges are crispy, bubbling, and golden brown. Once out of the oven, let them cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before carefully removing—they’re hot and worth the wait!

How to Serve Mini Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Bites Recipe

The image shows four small, round macaroni and cheese bites with pieces of broccoli mixed in, placed in light blue paper cups. The macaroni is golden yellow and slightly browned on top, with melted cheese covering the pasta and broccoli, giving a textured, bubbly appearance. The background is a white marbled surface that contrasts with the bright colors of the food. In the upper right, there is a white bowl with some grated cheese visible, adding context to the ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Try sprinkling some extra shredded sharp Cheddar or freshly chopped parsley on top just before serving to add a pop of color and flavor. A light dusting of smoked paprika can lend a subtle smoky kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy bites.

Side Dishes

These Mini Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Bites are flexible and can be part of a bigger meal. They pair wonderfully with crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or even a fruity chutney to cut through the rich creaminess. Serve them alongside grilled chicken or savory soup for a comforting, well-rounded plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Place these bites on a tiered serving tray at your next party for an inviting, Instagram-worthy display. Alternatively, serve them with small dipping bowls of marinara or ranch dressing for a playful twist that will delight both kids and adults alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers—which is rare because they disappear fast—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled maintains their texture and flavor until you’re ready for round two.

Freezing

You can freeze these bites by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen Mini Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Bites can last up to 2 months, making them perfect to prep ahead and enjoy anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, pop them in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that irresistible crust; the oven will refresh their baked goodness better.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar and Parmesan build the classic flavor, feel free to experiment with Colby Jack for extra creaminess or Gruyère for a deeper flavor. Just keep the cheese quantities similar for the best texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for thickening sauces. Make sure your pasta is gluten-free as well to keep the bites safe for gluten sensitivities.

Can I add other vegetables besides broccoli?

Definitely! Peas, finely chopped spinach, or roasted red peppers all work well as add-ins. Just make sure to cook or prepare the vegetables so they’re tender and not adding extra moisture.

What is the best way to serve these to kids?

Kiddos love finger foods, so these mini bites are a great size for little hands. You can serve them with mild dipping sauces like ketchup or mild ranch, and even sneak in extra veggies like the broccoli without protest.

How can I make these bites more crispy?

For an extra crispy exterior, lightly sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top before baking. This adds a lovely crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy interior.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Mini Mac & Cheese with Broccoli Bites Recipe feels like passing along a little piece of comfort and joy. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family dinner, or just a fun snack, these bites bring warmth, flavor, and a dash of green goodness to the table. Give this recipe a try and watch these cheesy, broccoli-filled delights disappear before your eyes!