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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm embrace of macaroni and cheese. This beloved classic, with its creamy cheese sauce enveloping tender pasta, has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. From family dinners to festive gatherings, mac and cheese is a staple that evokes feelings of nostalgia, warmth, and sheer satisfaction.

Mini Baked Mac & Cheese Stuffed Tots

Indulge in a delightful twist on comfort food with mini baked mac & cheese stuffed tots. These crispy bites combine creamy macaroni and cheese with fluffy potato, creating a unique treat that's perfect for gatherings or family meals. With a golden, crunchy exterior and a rich cheesy interior, they are sure to please both kids and adults. Easy to make and customizable, these tasty morsels are a fun way to share the nostalgia of mac and cheese in a new form.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup elbow macaroni

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup milk

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup mashed potatoes (prepared or instant)

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or olive oil.

    Cook the Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the sharp cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese melts completely.

        Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until well combined.

          Prepare Tater Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.

            Assemble the Tots: Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each mini muffin cup halfway with the mashed potato mixture. Create a small indent in the center of each to hold the mac and cheese. Add a spoonful of the mac and cheese mixture into each indent, then top with more mashed potatoes until just filled.

              Add the Crunch: Sprinkle the tops of the filled tots generously with panko breadcrumbs to add a crunchy texture.

                Bake: Place the mini muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.

                  Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the mini tots cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin. Serve warm as a delightful appetizer or snack!

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12 mini tots