Mac 'n' Cheese Minis

Health score
7%
Mac 'n' Cheese Minis
45 min.
8
172kcal

Suggestions


Imagine indulging in a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion – say hello to Mac 'n' Cheese Minis! These individual servings pack all the gooey, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese, but with a gourmet flair that will impress your guests and elevate your appetizer game. Each small ramekin is a burst of flavor, combining the rich nuttiness of Gruyère and Swiss cheese with a hint of kirsch for a sophisticated touch.

What sets these bite-sized treats apart is not only their unique flavor profile but also the charming presentation. Picture serving these warm, delectable mini mac and cheeses, topped with a sprinkle of seasoned breadcrumbs that lend the perfect crispy topping. And as if that weren't enough, each ramekin is adorned with a fresh arugula salad tossed in zesty lemon juice and black pepper, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the cheese sauce.

Ready in just 45 minutes, these Mac 'n' Cheese Minis are the ideal choice for antipasti, snacks, or starters at your next gathering. With only 172 calories per serving, you can enjoy them guilt-free while satisfying your craving for comfort food. Whether it's for a special occasion or simply a cozy night in, these delightful bites are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!

Ingredients

  • cup arugula 
  • 0.1 teaspoon pepper black freshly ground
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth 
  • ounces elbow macaroni cooked (such as elbow macaroni)
  • teaspoons cornstarch 
  • clove garlic halved
  • 0.3 cup gruyere cheese grated
  •  juice of lemon divided
  • 0.3 cup brandy (or cherry brandy)
  • 0.8 cup swiss cheese grated
  • 0.1 teaspoons nutmeg freshly grated
  • tablespoons seasoned bread crumbs 

Equipment

  • bowl
  • frying pan
  • baking sheet
  • sauce pan
  • oven
  • wire rack
  • ramekin

Directions

  1. Heat oven to 400°F.
  2. Pour 1/2 the lemon juice into a mug or bowl and stir in cornstarch. Rub inside of a saucepan with garlic; cut clove halves into pieces and add to pan.
  3. Add broth, kirsch and nutmeg. Bring to a slow boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Add cheeses. Reduce heat to medium, stirring until cheese melts, 2 to 3 minutes. (
  5. Mixture will separate.) Stir in juice-cornstarch mixture, cooking until sauce comes together, 30 seconds. Stir in pasta and spoon into 8 small ramekins or espresso cups. Top with breadcrumbs; transfer to a baking sheet.
  6. Bake, uncovered, until tops bubble, 8 to 10 minutes.
  7. Remove from oven; transfer ramekins to a wire rack to cool, 4 to 5 minutes. Toss arugula, remaining lemon juice and pepper in a bowl. Top each mac 'n' cheese with salad.
  8. Self

Nutrition Facts

Calories172kcal
Protein21.87%
Fat14.63%
Carbs63.5%

Properties

Glycemic Index
22.38
Glycemic Load
0.06
Inflammation Score
-2
Nutrition Score
5.9960870218018%

Flavonoids

Eriodictyol
0.18mg
Hesperetin
0.54mg
Naringenin
0.05mg
Isorhamnetin
0.11mg
Kaempferol
0.87mg
Myricetin
0.01mg
Quercetin
0.22mg

Nutrients percent of daily need

Calories:172.27kcal
8.61%
Fat:2.48g
3.82%
Saturated Fat:1.24g
7.76%
Carbohydrates:24.27g
8.09%
Net Carbohydrates:23.16g
8.42%
Sugar:1.27g
1.41%
Cholesterol:8.4mg
2.8%
Sodium:140.1mg
6.09%
Alcohol:2.51g
100%
Alcohol %:4.26%
100%
Protein:8.36g
16.71%
Selenium:20.56µg
29.37%
Manganese:0.31mg
15.66%
Calcium:155.16mg
15.52%
Phosphorus:147.46mg
14.75%
Zinc:1.02mg
6.83%
Magnesium:23.07mg
5.77%
Vitamin B2:0.09mg
5.15%
Copper:0.1mg
5.02%
Fiber:1.11g
4.43%
Vitamin B12:0.25µg
4.13%
Vitamin B1:0.06mg
4.03%
Vitamin K:4.12µg
3.93%
Vitamin B3:0.7mg
3.49%
Iron:0.58mg
3.23%
Vitamin B6:0.06mg
3.22%
Folate:12.31µg
3.08%
Potassium:101.5mg
2.9%
Vitamin C:2.01mg
2.44%
Vitamin A:119.4IU
2.39%
Vitamin B5:0.18mg
1.81%
Source:Epicurious