Mac and Cheese Cups Recipe

This Mac and Cheese Cups recipe turns classic macaroni and cheese into six comforting individual portions. Tender macaroni is folded into a creamy white Cheddar sauce, divided among ramekins, and finished with a crisp topping made from cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter.

The cups bake until bubbling and lightly browned, creating an irresistible contrast between the smooth macaroni filling and crunchy golden topping. They can also be prepared in one square baking dish for an easy family-style dinner.

The Inspiration

Macaroni and cheese became widely valued as an economical way to prepare a filling meal for families and larger groups. Its familiar combination of pasta, milk, butter, and cheese continues to make it one of the most comforting dishes for both children and adults.

This Mac and Cheese Cups recipe comes directly from the American Girl: Sweet & Savory Treats Cookbook. It reflects the cookbook’s approachable collection of sweet and savoury recipes designed for sharing with family and friends.

Featured on Cook the Books: Celebrity Edition Season 3, host Shahir Massoud prepares the recipe as a simple but satisfying example of homemade comfort food. Presenting the macaroni and cheese in ramekins gives every guest an individual serving with plenty of crisp topping.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

• 3½ cups macaroni
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
• Non-stick cooking spray
• 3 tablespoons (43 g) unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons (24 g) all-purpose flour
• 1¾ cups (420 ml) whole milk, warmed
• 1¾ cups (200 g) shredded white Cheddar cheese
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Generous pinch of freshly ground black pepper

For the Crunchy Topping

• ¾ cup (85 g) shredded white Cheddar cheese
• ½ cup (30 g) panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon (14 g) unsalted butter, melted

Method

• Fill a large saucepan approximately three-quarters full with salted water. Place it over high heat and bring the water to a boil.
• Add the macaroni and cook until it is almost tender but remains slightly firm, approximately 5 minutes.
• Drain the macaroni in a large colander. Rinse it under cold running water, drizzle it with the olive oil, and toss until evenly coated. Set aside.
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spray six 6-fluid-ounce ramekins or one 8-inch square baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the ramekins or baking dish on a rimmed baking sheet.
• Return the saucepan to medium-low heat and add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely.
• Add the all-purpose flour and warmed whole milk. Cook for approximately 3 minutes, stirring continuously, until the mixture becomes smooth and thickened.
• Add 1¾ cups of shredded white Cheddar and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is hot.
• Stir in ¼ teaspoon of salt and a generous pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
• Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece of pasta is evenly coated.
• Divide the macaroni and cheese evenly among the six prepared ramekins. For a family-style presentation, pour all the macaroni and cheese into the prepared square baking dish.
• To prepare the crunchy topping, combine the remaining ¾ cup of shredded white Cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter in a bowl.
• Stir until the cheese and breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
• Sprinkle the topping evenly over each ramekin or across the surface of the square baking dish.
• Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the topping is lightly browned.
• Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the macaroni and cheese to cool briefly before serving.
• Serve the Mac and Cheese Cups hot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mac and Cheese Cups directly in their ramekins for an inviting individual presentation. Place each ramekin on a small heat-resistant plate and remind guests that the dishes may remain hot after leaving the oven.

These creamy cups can be served as a comforting main course with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. They also make an excellent side dish for roasted chicken, grilled meats, burgers, or a casual family dinner.

When prepared in the 8-inch baking dish, bring the macaroni and cheese to the table family-style and spoon it onto individual plates. Make sure every serving receives some of the crisp Cheddar and panko topping.

Final Thoughts

This Mac and Cheese Cups recipe delivers everything people love about homemade macaroni and cheese in a charming individual format. White Cheddar creates a rich and creamy sauce, while the buttery panko topping adds an essential layer of crunch.

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