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In recent years, the culinary landscape has witnessed a delightful evolution in comfort food. Gone are the days when traditional recipes reigned supreme; today, food enthusiasts and home cooks alike are embracing unique twists on classic dishes. The rise of fusion recipes highlights the desire for innovation, leading to the creation of comforting yet adventurous meals that satisfy both the palate and the soul. One such dish that perfectly encapsulates this trend is Savory Butternut Bacon Mac Bites, a delightful blend of flavors and textures that elevates the beloved mac and cheese into a bite-sized treat.

Savory Butternut Bacon Mac Bites

Discover a new twist on a classic favorite with Savory Butternut Bacon Mac Bites! These delectable bite-sized treats combine creamy mac and cheese, sweet roasted butternut squash, and crispy bacon for a snack that will impress at any gathering. Perfect for parties or cozy family dinners, this recipe allows you to enjoy comfort food in an innovative way. Learn how to create these irresistible bites that blend flavors and textures beautifully.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup butternut squash, peeled and diced

1 cup elbow macaroni

4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Butternut Squash: In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil and add the diced butternut squash. Cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

    Prepare the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy and browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.

        Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, lower the heat and add the cooked butternut squash. Mash it slightly with a fork or potato masher. Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

          Combine Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the cooked macaroni, crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan. Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese has melted.

            Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tray with cooking spray or butter. Scoop the mac and cheese mixture into the muffin cups until they are filled.

              Top with Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine the remaining Parmesan with the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the filled muffin cups.

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

                  Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the mac bites cool for a few minutes in the tray. Use a butter knife to gently loosen the sides before lifting them out. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 24 bites