Mac N Cheese Cupcakes

Today is my first day back at middle school since Spring Break.  I am actually super excited, although, I could have slept a tad longer...I can't wait to see the kids again and be back in the classroom!

Also, today I am bringing you a recipe that is just super adorable.  What happens when you combine two things that you love? Well, sometimes it doesn't turn out that great, but usually it's pretty awesome.  I combined macaroni and cheese with cupcakes.  Sounds strange, but it's a great appetizer, super adaptable, and everyone will love it.  I imagine myself making these with my kids one day.  It will be super fun and it will get them to eat some veggies.  So cute.

Mac N Cheese Cupcakes (adapted from The Comfort of Cooking)

Ingredients:
12 oz whole wheat macaroni noodles
1 cup whole wheat panko bread crumbs
2 cups low-fat cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper
1 cup chopped broccoli

Directions:
1. Cook macaroni according to instructions until al dente.  Drain and put back into the bowl. Stir in the 2 cups of shredded cheddar until melted. Stir in the salt and pepper.
2. Steam broccoli for a few minutes so that it is warm, but still fairly crunchy.
3. Grease a cupcake pan and sprinkle bread crumbs into each cupcake well.  Make sure the bottoms are covered and that some crumbs are on the sides. Scoop in the macaroni and cheese and press into each cup. Place pieces of broccoli on the top and then sprinkle with more bread crumbs.
4. Bake at 375 for 15 minutes.  Let cool for 5 and then remove from the pan with a butter knife.  Serve warm.
Enjoy :)