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Comfort food holds a special place in the hearts of many. It evokes nostalgia, warmth, and a sense of belonging, transcending cultural boundaries and personal preferences. Whether it's a steaming bowl of soup, a hearty casserole, or a gooey slice of pizza, comfort food has a way of bringing people together. Among these beloved dishes, macaroni and cheese stands out as a quintessential favorite, celebrated for its creamy indulgence and satisfying texture. Today, we’re excited to introduce a playful and spicy twist on this classic: Spicy Cheesy Bites of Joy. These delightful morsels are not just a snack; they are a celebration of flavor, perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying on your own.

Green Chili Mac and Cheese Bites

Discover the magic of Spicy Cheesy Bites of Joy, a delightful twist on classic mac and cheese that combines creamy textures with a kick of spice. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy snack at home, these bite-sized indulgences feature a crispy exterior that reveals a gooey, cheesy center packed with flavor. Made with fresh ingredients and spices, they’re easily customizable to suit your heat preference. Elevate your snack game and enjoy these crowd-pleasers at your next event!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

1-2 fresh green chilies, diced (seeds removed for less heat)

½ cup jalapeños, finely chopped (pickled or fresh)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking spray or oil for greasing the muffin tin

Instructions
 

Cook the Macaroni: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside to cool slightly.

    Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute, until a smooth paste (roux) forms. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking, and continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and has thickened (about 5-7 minutes).

      Incorporate the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and mix in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir until the cheeses have completely melted and are well combined. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Gently fold in the diced green chilies and the chopped jalapeños to infuse some heat.

        Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring well until each piece of pasta is thoroughly coated in the deliciously cheesy mixture. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.

          Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or a light coating of oil to prevent sticking.

            Create Bites: Take a tablespoon and scoop the mac and cheese mixture into each section of the greased mini muffin tin, pressing down firmly to pack it in. Sprinkle a layer of panko breadcrumbs on top of each bite, followed by a light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

              Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the tops become golden brown and crispy.

                Cool and Serve: Once baked, carefully allow the bites to cool for a few minutes in the muffin tin before gently removing them. Serve warm as a delectable snack, appetizer, or party treat. For an extra burst of flavor, offer a tangy dipping sauce on the side!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 24 bites

                    Presentation Tips: Arrange the bites on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Add small bowls of dipping sauce around the platter for an enticing presentation.