Quick Answer
Yes, you can absolutely put mac and cheese bites in the microwave to heat them up. Microwaving is actually the recommended method for heating frozen mac and cheese bites. Just follow the package instructions for microwave cooking times and power levels. The microwave provides a quick and easy way to get hot, melty, gooey mac and cheese bites in just minutes.
Instructions for Microwaving Mac and Cheese Bites
Microwaving frozen mac and cheese bites is simple. Here are some tips:
– Check the package instructions – Packages will indicate microwave cook times and power levels. This can vary based on the size and type of the bites. Follow the recommended cook times.
– Use a microwave-safe plate or bowl – Do not microwave the bites directly on the turntable or packaging, the cheese can leak. Use a microwave-safe plate, bowl or paper towel.
– Cook in intervals, stirring occasionally – Microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring or flipping halfway through. This helps prevent uneven cooking.
– Let stand 1-2 minutes before serving – The bites will continue cooking from residual heat. Letting them rest ensures the centers are fully heated.
– Add extra time if needed – If the bites seem undercooked, continue microwaving in 30 second intervals until heated through. Larger bites may need more time.
Why Microwaving Works Well for Mac and Cheese Bites
Microwaves are ideal for heating up mac and cheese bites because:
– Microwaves reheat frozen foods quickly – The microwave energy efficiently penetrates frozen items to rapidly defrost and heat the interior.
– Cheese melts well in the microwave – Microwave energy excites the fat and protein molecules in cheese, causing it to melt evenly.
– Quick cooking prevents burning – Unlike the oven, microwaves heat food without browning or crisping the exterior, preventing burning.
– Individual bites heat uniformly – The small size and shape of the bites allows microwaves to heat through the center. Larger foods can cook unevenly.
– No need to preheat – Microwaves heat immediately with the touch of a button, unlike conventional ovens.
Choosing the Right Microwave Power Level
– High power (70-100%) – Best for heating bites from fully frozen to quickly melt the cheese.
– Medium power (50-70%) – Good for finishes cooking or gently reheating partially thawed bites. Prevents overcooking.
– Low power (30-50%) – Useful for delicate reheating without overcooking. Helps cheese melt smoothly.
Consider the starting temperature and density of the bites when selecting microwave power. Follow package guidance for best results.
Troubleshooting Microwaved Mac and Cheese Bites
If the microwaved bites don’t turn out right, here are some tips:
Bites are still cold in the center:
– Cook longer in 30 second increments until heated through. Larger bites may need more time.
Breading/coating is soggy:
– Use paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
– Don’t overcook, which creates more steam.
Cheese leaks out:
– Always use a plate or bowl. Covering with a paper towel can help.
– Don’t overfill container, leave room between bites.
Edges or coating are burnt:
– Use a lower power level and stir occasionally.
– Watch closely near the end of cooking time.
Bites are dried out:
– Don’t overcook. Microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out.
– Stir in a tablespoon of milk or water to restore moisture.
Storing Leftover Microwaved Mac and Cheese Bites
Leftover microwaved mac and cheese bites should be stored properly to maintain quality and safety. Follow these tips:
– Let cool completely before storing. Seal in an airtight container.
– Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Use within 3-5 days. The breading may soften over time.
– For longer storage, freeze cooled bites in a single layer on a sheet pan then transfer to bags. Use within 2-3 months.
– When reheating leftovers, microwave in 30 second intervals until warmed through. Add a teaspoon of water or milk to restore moisture if needed.
– Do not store leftovers at room temperature or reheat more than once. Discard bites if mold or off-odors develop.
Serving Ideas for Microwaved Mac and Cheese Bites
Mac and cheese bites make a quick and easy snack, appetizer, or side dish. Consider serving them:
– As a game day snack with dips like marinara, ranch or salsa
– With fried pickles, buffalo wings, and celery sticks for a bar snack
– On toothpicks as an easy party appetizer
– Alongside soup or salad for a quick lunch
– As an appetizer before pizza, burgers, or sandwiches
– On top of a mixed green salad for added protein and flavor
– Over pasta or greens as a light main course
– With roasted vegetables and bread for a simple dinner
– In kids’ lunch boxes with fruits and veggies
– As a late night study snack for students
Nutrition Information for Mac and Cheese Bites
| Serving Size | 5 pieces (85g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Fat | 9g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Protein | 8g |
Mac and cheese bites are a high calorie, high fat food due to the cheese filling and fried breading. A 5 piece serving provides about 220 calories and 9g of fat, nearly half of which are saturated fats. They are also very high in sodium, with 480mg per serving.
On the positive side, they do provide protein from the cheese as well as some calcium. Overall, mac and cheese bites are a high fat indulgent snack or occasional treat best enjoyed in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet.
Different Types of Mac and Cheese Bites
There are many varieties of mac and cheese bites available, here are some common types:
– Classic: Made with a combination of cheddar, American and/or Velveeta cheeses. Often coated in panko breadcrumbs.
– Jalapeño: Spicy version with diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese mixed into the filling before breading.
– Buffalo Chicken: Shredded buffalo chicken and a buffalo style cheese sauce filling. Often served with ranch dip.
– Lobster: Made with chunks of lobster meat and a mix of Gruyère and cheddar cheese in the filling.
– Broccoli: Contains chopped broccoli florets and a mix of cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
– Crab: Features crab meat with cream cheese and Swiss cheese in the filling.
– BBQ Pork: Shredded bbq pork and cheddar cheese filling, sometimes with crispy bacon bits.
– Philly Cheesesteak: Thinly sliced steak, onions, peppers, and melted provolone cheese.
Conclusion
Microwaving is a fast, convenient method for heating frozen mac and cheese bites until hot and melted. Following package instructions for microwave power and cook times ensures evenly heated bites. Allowing the mac and cheese bites to rest afterwards allows the centers to fully cook through. With a few simple guidelines, you can enjoy perfectly melty microwaved mac and cheese bites in minutes. They make a tasty snack, appetizer or quick meal when you are craving comfort food.