Meatball Mac and Cheese Casserole

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Get ready to take your comfort food game to the next level with this Meatball Mac and Cheese Casserole! Imagine juicy meatballs nestled in creamy mac and cheese, all baked together for a dish that will have your family asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 box (16 oz) elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Shape into meatballs.
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth. Slowly whisk in the milk until thickened. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
In a baking dish, layer the cooked macaroni, meatballs, and cheese sauce. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Helpful tips:

Try adding some diced vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added flavor and nutrition.
Top the casserole with additional cheese or breadcrumbs for a crispy, golden crust.
For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.

Expert Secrets:

Cook the meatballs before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are fully cooked through.
Use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
For a creamier sauce, add a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese mixture.