Mac and cheese is one of the ultimate comfort foods—but in bite-size, breaded, frozen form? That’s where Trader Joe’s Mac and Cheese Bites come in. Found in the freezer section, these golden nuggets are meant to take everything you love about creamy mac and cheese and wrap it up in a crunchy, poppable format.
Each box retails for around $3.99 and contains 10 bites. They’re fully cooked and just need to be reheated in the oven or air fryer. But do they live up to the hype, or are they just another frozen appetizer that sounds better than it tastes?
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Review
When I think of mac and cheese, I think of gooey, cheesy comfort food, not necessarily something that translates easily to the frozen aisle. But curiosity got the best of me with these Mac and Cheese Bites. They looked crispy on the outside and promised cheesy goodness on the inside, and for the price, they seemed like a low-risk gamble.
Once baked, they developed a nice golden brown color. I used the air fryer, which I highly recommend for the best texture. The exterior crisped up beautifully without falling apart, which can sometimes happen with frozen bites. That first bite delivered a satisfying crunch and revealed a creamy interior with tiny macaroni pieces suspended in melted cheese.
The filling is made with a blend of cheeses, not just cheddar, and it shows. There’s a little tang and complexity to the flavor that makes these more than just a kid-friendly snack. The pasta is soft but not mushy, and the filling-to-coating ratio is pretty spot on.
Now, are they indulgent? Absolutely. These are rich, cheesy, and clearly not pretending to be health food. But they’re satisfying in that guilty-pleasure way. You can easily eat half a box without realizing it.
One minor gripe: while the cheese flavor is good, I wish it were just a bit more pronounced or gooey. The filling holds together, which makes for neat bites, but I wouldn’t mind a touch more stretch or melt. Still, for a freezer item, they’re solid, especially if you’re looking for a snack, party appetizer, or an easy side to a soup or salad.
Ingredients
Main ingredients include:
- Cooked macaroni
- Cheddar cheese
- Swiss, Havarti, and Gouda cheeses
- Milk
- Wheat flour
- Breadcrumb coating
- Salt, seasonings, and a touch of mustard powder
Contains wheat, milk, and eggs. Not gluten-free or vegan.
How to Prepare
Oven Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Place bites on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 17–19 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Let sit 2 minutes before serving.
Air Fryer (Recommended)
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
- Place bites in a single layer.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
The air fryer yields a better crust and faster results with less oil.
Recipe Suggestions and Creative Uses
Here are some fun suggestions on how to enjoy these:
- Make a platter with different frozen bites from Trader Joe’s for an easy entertaining spread.
- Serve with dipping sauces like spicy ketchup, ranch, or even hot honey.
- Stack them on skewers with cherry tomatoes or pickles for a fun party bite.
- Pair with tomato soup for a play on grilled cheese and soup.
FAQs about Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese Bites
The following are commonly asked questions about this product:
There are about 10 bites per box.
No, but you could pair them with a spicy dip to add heat.
Definitely. The mild cheese blend and crispy texture make them kid-friendly.
Not recommended. You’ll lose the crispy coating.
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe’s Mac and Cheese Bites are a fun, indulgent treat that hit all the right notes for frozen comfort food. While they might not be as cheesy or gooey as some homemade versions, they make up for it with convenience, great texture, and a solid flavor. Whether you’re throwing together a party platter or just want an easy side for your weeknight soup, these little bites are a satisfying option to keep stocked in your freezer.
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Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese Bites
Product Name: Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese Bites
Product Description: Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese Bites have delicious mac and cheese surrounded by a yummy panko-like breading.
Price: $3.99
Summary
Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese Bites are back on freezer shelves.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Crispy exterior: Gets golden and crunchy, especially in the air fryer.
- Creamy filling: Mac and cheese interior is satisfying and well-balanced.
- Easy to make: No prep beyond heating.
- Great value: Around $4 for a 10-piece box.
- Kid and crowd friendly: A hit with all ages.
Cons
- Mild cheese flavor: Could use a bit more sharpness or melt.
- Small portion: May not be enough for multiple people.
- Not gluten-free: Wheat-based pasta and coating.
- No dipping sauce included: You’ll have to pair your own.
Dagmar says
These are so much better than the original. They are more cheesy, creamy and less dry. I truly didn't like the original ones after I have them a couple of times. I would definitely buy this new version again.
Zazu says
I actually liked these a lot better when they were cold than hot. I found them rather tasteless and bland. A mixture of different cheeses would elevate them to a true appetizer item.
becomebetty says
Hey Zazu! Thanks for sharing!