Fall is here, and Trader Joe's knows how to get us in the seasonal spirit with their Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Bites. Imagine the creamy, cheesy comfort of mac and cheese combined with the sweetness of butternut squash, all wrapped up in a bite-sized, crispy snack. Whether you're looking for a party appetizer or a quick snack, these bites hit all the right notes for cozy fall comfort food.
The taste
Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Bites come in a 10-ounce box, typically priced around $3.99. These crispy, golden bites are made with a blend of butternut squash puree, a creamy cheese sauce, and elbow macaroni. The outside is breaded and perfectly crunchy, while the inside is rich and cheesy with a subtle sweetness from the butternut squash. They're a seasonal item, which means you'll have to act fast to enjoy them while they're available!
Honest Review of Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Bites
Flavor: These bites bring together the best of both worlds: the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional mac and cheese, paired with the slight sweetness of butternut squash. The squash flavor is subtle, complementing the cheese rather than overpowering it. They have just the right balance of savory and sweet, making them a fun twist on a classic comfort food.
Texture: The contrast between the crispy exterior and the gooey mac and cheese inside is spot-on. The breading crisps up beautifully in the oven or air fryer, while the cheesy filling stays rich and creamy. It's the kind of texture you expect from a well-executed appetizer-crunchy on the outside, soft and melty on the inside. In the oven these were less crisp.
Overall: These bites make for a decent snack, party appetizer, or even a fun side dish. They're easy to prepare and don't take long to cook, making them a quick go-to when you're in the mood for something warm and comforting. The squash was subtle and these were best made in the air fryer. Where I was disappointed in these was that I was expecting this to be a lot more like Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese which is outstanding and flavorful, these were noticeably more plain.
Ingredients
Key ingredients include:
Bread Crumbs: Provides the crispy coating on the outside.
Butternut Squash Puree: Adds a hint of sweetness and a seasonal fall flavor.
Cheese Sauce: A blend of cheeses gives the bites their creamy, rich filling.
Macaroni Pasta: The classic elbow macaroni is at the heart of each bite.
How to Use Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Bites
- Cooking Instructions: Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy. For an extra crispy result, try using an air fryer and cook for about 8-10 minutes at 400°F.
- Pair with Dips: Serve them with marinara sauce, ranch, or a sriracha mayo for an added kick.
- As an Appetizer or Side: These bites are perfect for fall gatherings, game-day snacks, or as a fun twist on a side dish.
- Meal Ideas: Pair with a fall-inspired salad or a warm soup like butternut squash bisque to create a cozy, comforting meal.
Recipe Suggestions
Pumpkin Dip Pairing: Whip up a pumpkin-flavored dip with cream cheese, pumpkin puree, and fall spices for a dip that pairs perfectly with these mac and cheese bites.
Mac and Cheese Bites with a Twist: Serve them alongside a bowl of Trader Joe's Autumnal Harvest Soup for a full-on fall feast.
Buffalo Mac and Cheese Bites: Drizzle the bites with buffalo sauce and a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles for an extra flavorful twist.
Frequently Asked Questions about Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Bites
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in an oven or air fryer to retain their crispy texture.
Absolutely! For an extra crispy texture, cook them in an air fryer at 400°F for about 10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
No, these bites contain bread crumbs, which include gluten. Those with gluten sensitivities should steer clear.
Overall
Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Bites are a decent twist on the classic comfort food. With a crispy breaded exterior and a rich, cheesy, and slightly sweet butternut squash filling, these bites are the perfect fall appetizer or snack. Easy to cook and full of seasonal flavor, they make a great addition to any cozy meal or game-day spread. Just be sure to grab them while they're in season because these bites won't be around forever.
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Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Bites
Product Name: Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Bites
Product Description: Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Bites are new but not like the other butternut squash mac and cheese.
Price: $3.99
Currency: USD
Availability: LimitedAvailability
Summary
Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Bites are back but still seasonal.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Fall Flavor: Butternut squash adds a seasonal twist to the classic mac and cheese bite.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for a fast snack or appetizer that’s ready in under 20 minutes.
- Crispy Exterior: The breading crisps up beautifully, adding a great texture contrast.
- Versatile: Can be served as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer.
Cons
- Seasonal Availability: These bites are only available in the fall, so stock up while you can!
- Mild Squash Flavor: If you’re looking for a strong butternut squash taste, the flavor here is more subtle, as it complements the cheese.
EllenLV says
Brenda, once again your review has saved me money, you have never steered me wrong. Thank you!
Alek says
OUCH! That sucks. I wonder if you could make mac n cheese bites then served butternut squash bisque on the side.
Attila Szendrodi says
Damn. I got these a couple of weeks ago and was waiting for some actual Autumnal weather to justify making them. Now I'm nervous.
becomebetty says
They are edible...but they aren't great. You might like them more than I did. I'd still love to hear your thoughts.
pauldaviescartoons says
Note to self, must read more of these to wonder at what Americans like, or don’t like, to eat. Seems like they will breadcrumb almost anything, and put cheese in it. Fascinating.
KingOfBeacon says
Finally tried them. They were.....ok. Needed some more salt or a dipping sauce of some sort.
becomebetty says
Thanks for sharing! I felt the same way.