Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and place in a large mixing well.

Preheat oven to 375F.

While macaroni is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add flour and paprika, whisking 2 minutes. Add milk and continue to whisk 5 minutes or until thick and no lumps appear. Remove from heat and stir in cheese. Stir cheese mixture into macaroni until combined. Add bacon and pepper, mixing gently. Using a cookie scoop, scoop macaroni mixture evenly into lightly greased regular-size muffin cup pan, pressing to pack down into muffin cups. The mixture does not rise so you can fill almost to the top of each cup.

If a crust topping is desired, turn oven to broil and combine panko and 1 tablespoon melted butter on a baking sheet. Broil 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown. Spoon 2 teaspoons over each muffins cup.

Bake in preheated oven 23 to 25 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Remove from oven and let stand 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edges of each cup to remove from pans. These area also great reheated.