Mac and cheese bites

Appetizer

Item Rating: 46/100

1 serving (85 grams) contains 310 calories, 8.0 grams of protein, 17.0 grams of fat, and 32.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.1g)

Calories		861.1
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		47.2 g	60%
	Saturated Fat	19.4 g	96%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		83.3 mg	27%
Sodium		1722.2 mg	74%
Total Carbohydrates		88.9 g	32%
	Dietary Fiber	2.8 g	10%
	Sugars	5.6 g
protein		22.2 g	44%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		416.7 mg	32%
Iron		3.3 mg	18%
Potassium		333.3 mg	7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

⚠️ Contains trans fat

🧈 High saturated fat

Source of Calories

Fat: 424 cal (48.9%)

Protein: 88 cal (10.2%)

Carbs: 355 cal (40.9%)

About Mac and cheese bites

Mac and cheese bites are a popular appetizer or snack derived from traditional macaroni and cheese, a dish with roots in European cuisine but heavily popularized in the United States. These bites are made by combining cooked macaroni pasta with a rich cheese sauce, often breaded and fried or baked into small, crispy portions. Nutritionally, mac and cheese bites are high in carbohydrates due to the pasta and breading, and they offer moderate protein and fat content from the cheese and cooking process. However, they are typically high in calories and saturated fats, making them an occasional indulgence rather than an everyday food choice.

Health Benefits

• Provides calcium from the cheese, which is essential for bone health.
• Contains some protein from the cheese, supporting muscle repair and growth.
• Source of energy due to carbohydrates from the pasta and breading.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains wheat, milk, eggs (if used in breading)

Suitable for: Lacto-vegetarian diet (if no meat is added)

Not suitable for: Vegan diet, gluten-free diet (unless gluten-free pasta or breading is used), dairy-free diet

Selection and Storage

Store cooked mac and cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Common Questions About Mac and cheese bites Nutrition

Are mac and cheese bites high in protein?

Mac and cheese bites typically contain around 4-6 grams of protein per serving (about 4-5 bites), depending on the recipe and brand. While they do offer some protein from the cheese and pasta, they are not considered a high-protein food.

Can I eat mac and cheese bites on a keto diet?

Mac and cheese bites are not keto-friendly as they are primarily made with flour-based breadcrumbs and pasta, which are high in carbohydrates. A standard serving can contain 20-30 grams of carbs, which can exceed daily limits for those on a strict keto diet.

Are there any health concerns with eating mac and cheese bites?

While mac and cheese bites are a tasty treat, they are often fried and can be high in saturated fats, sodium, and calories—one serving usually has 200-300 calories. Regular consumption should be balanced with healthier food options to avoid excessive calorie, fat, and sodium intake.

What’s a recommended serving size for mac and cheese bites?

A typical serving size for mac and cheese bites is around 4-5 bites, which amounts to approximately 200-300 calories. It's best enjoyed as an occasional snack or appetizer rather than a main meal, especially if you are monitoring calorie intake.

How do mac and cheese bites compare to regular mac and cheese?

Mac and cheese bites are fried or baked, making them more calorie-dense than regular mac and cheese. While they provide a crispy texture and convenience, they often contain more fat and sodium due to added coatings and frying. Regular mac and cheese may be a slightly less indulgent choice if prepared with minimal butter and cheese.

Data Sources & Scientific References