Prepare the Mac and Cheese

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for about 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the Cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (and any other cheeses you like) until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated. Allow it to cool slightly.

Form the Bites

1. Prep Your Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In another, whisk the egg. In a third, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley.
2. Shape the Mac and Cheese Bites: Using your hands, take about a tablespoon of the mac and cheese mixture and form it into a small ball. Roll the ball gently between your hands to compact it. Repeat until all the mac and cheese is shaped into bites.
3. Coat the Bites: Dredge each bite in flour, dip it into the beaten egg, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it’s well coated.

Cook the Bites

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly grease the sheet with cooking spray or drizzle with a little oil.
2. Bake: Place the breaded mac and cheese bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for an extra crispy finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
3. Serve: Let the bites cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces on the side.