Mini Mac-and-Cheese Bites

[ingredients-list title=”Ingredients” serving_size=””]

[ingredients-left]

• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Pepper to taste
• 1 cup whole milk

[/ingredients-left]
[ingredients-right]

• 1/2 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 4 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
• Thin baguette slices
• Fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Paprika

[/ingredients-right]
[/ingredients-list]

[step-list-wrapper title=”How to make it” time=””]
[step-item number=”1″ image_url=”” title=”” ]In saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter on medium-low heat; add flour until blended. Add salt, pepper and milk. Cook, stirring until thickened. Add cheese; stir until melted. Add macaroni until well blended. [/step-item]

[step-item number=”2″ image_url=”” title=”” ]Line a slice of baguette with a basil leaf. Top with about 1 tablespoon mac and cheese. [/step-item]

[step-item number=”3″ image_url=”” title=”” ]Toss breadcrumbs with remaining 2 tablespoons butter (melted); press onto macaroni. Sprinkle with paprika. Broil 4 inches from heat until browned. Makes about 48. [/step-item][/step-list-wrapper]

Originally Published in Reader's Digest