Mini Mac & Cheese Cups
Lunch

Mini Mac & Cheese Cups

Individual portions of creamy mac and cheese with hidden vegetables - perfect for 18-month-old fingers

Choking safety

Soften hard fruit/veg thoroughly and cut to the recommended size for the age shown.

Allergen info

Contains dairy (or alternatives if swapped).

Allergen info

Contains gluten unless using GF alternatives.

Storage

Cool quickly. Refrigerate within 2 hours. Reheat until steaming hot. Defrost in the fridge/microwave and eat within 24 hours of defrosting.

Prep: 10mCook: 15mServes: 12 mini cups18-24m

Mess Level

💦💦💧💧💧

Light Mess

Ingredients
Portion ControlAdjust the portion size to match your toddler's appetite, offering small servings and allowing them to ask for more if still hungry.
Original Recipe
As written in recipe
x1
x1
x2
x2.5
x3
x4
x6
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or small shells
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp plain flour
  • 1 cup grated mild cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely grated carrot (hidden veggie)
  • 1/4 cup pureed cauliflower (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Pinch of salt (if over 12 months)
  • Cooking spray for muffin tin
Frequently Asked Questions
Cost Breakdown
Pasta£0.30
Milk£0.20
Butter£0.15
Flour£0.05
Cheddar cheese£0.80
Parmesan cheese£0.25
Carrot£0.10
Cauliflower£0.15
Seasonings£0.05
Total Cost:£2.05
Nutrition Per Serving

85

Calories

4g

Protein

10g

Carbs

3g

Fat

90mg

Calcium

15% DV

Vitamin A

Safety Notes
  • Ensure pasta is cooked until very soft for 18-month-olds
  • Allow to cool completely - cheese sauce stays hot for a long time
  • Always supervise during eating
  • Check temperature before serving
Chef's Tips
  • Grate carrots very finely so they blend invisibly into the cheese sauce
  • Make a double batch and freeze half for quick future meals
  • Let toddlers help pour the pasta into muffin cups for extra engagement
  • These work great for daycare lunches - just reheat gently
  • Add different vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potato puree
For Picky Eaters

Plain Cheese Version

Skip the hidden vegetables and just make classic mac and cheese cups

Different Pasta Shapes

Try bow ties, rotini, or alphabet pasta for variety

Milder Flavor

Use all mild cheddar and skip the parmesan for sensitive taste buds

Finger Food Style

Make them firmer by adding an beaten egg before baking

Categories
Individual portionsHidden vegetablesFreezer friendlyMeal prep perfectCalcium richFinger food friendlyDaycare approvedPortion controlled