Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a muffin tin with butter or nonstick cooking spray. This step ensures that the mac and cheese bites do not stick to the pan after baking.

Step 2: Make the Roux

A roux is a mixture of butter and flour used to thicken sauces. This step is crucial for creating a smooth and creamy cheese sauce.

1. In a medium-sized pan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is fully melted, quickly whisk in the flour, garlic powder, white ground pepper, and salt.
3. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly golden, about one to two minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low.
3. Add the shredded sharp cheddar and white cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the cooked and drained macaroni noodles to the cheese sauce, folding gently to coat the pasta evenly.
2. Stir in the finely diced cooked chicken or beef.
3. Add the Panko breadcrumbs to the mixture and combine well.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin

1. Using a spoon, fill each muffin cup with the mac and cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure they hold their shape.
2. For an extra crispy topping, sprinkle additional breadcrumbs over each bite before baking.

Step 6: Bake the Mac and Cheese Bites

1. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.
3. Remove from the oven and allow the bites to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes.
4. Use a spoon to gently loosen the edges and carefully remove the bites from the pan.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the mac and cheese bites warm as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.