MAC AND BEER CHEESE CUPS

Mac and Beer Cheese Cups image

Provided by Pat Duran

Time 1h30m

Number Of Ingredients 11

3 Tbsp butter
3/4 c panko bread crumbs
8 oz uncooked elbow macaroni
1/4 c all purpose flour
3/4 c milk
3/4 c beer
1 c shredded american cheese
2 1/2 c shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
slice cooked beer brats or popcorn for garnish

Steps:

1. Heat oven to 375^. Place foil baking cup in each of 15 regular-size muffin cups. In small microwavable bowl. microwave 1 Tablespoon of the butter uncovered on High 15 to 30 seconds or until melted. Stir in bread crumbs; set aside. Cook and drain macaroni as directed on package to al-dente stage. Melt remaining 3 Tablespoons butter in 4-quart saucepan over low heat. Stir in flour. Cook 1 minute, stirring with a whisk. While continuing to stir, add milk and beer. Cook and stir 1 to 2 minutes or until thickened and smooth. Remove from heat; stir in cheeses. salt and pepper. Add cooked macaroni; stir well. Spoon about 1/4 cup macaroni into each cup. Top each with scant 1 Tablespoon bread crumb (Panko) mixture. Bake 25-30 minutes or until hot and topping is golden brown. Cool 5 minutes; remove from pan. Garnish with Brat pieces or popcorn.