Meatball Macaroni and Cheese Bake
Looking for a comforting and delicious meal that your family will love? This Meatball Macaroni and Cheese Bake is the perfect combination of cheesy goodness and savory meatballs. It’s a sure crowd-pleaser for dinner tonight!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 box macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup milk
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs and place in the baking dish.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, heat the cheddar cheese soup and milk until smooth. Pour over the meatballs in the baking dish.
- Add the cooked macaroni on top, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use turkey meat instead of ground beef?
- Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
- Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.
A: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Mozzarella or pepper jack cheese can be great alternatives.
A: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
A: Leftovers can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Helpful tips:
- Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Top with crispy bacon or breadcrumbs for added texture.
- Mix in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
Expert Secrets:
- Pre-cook the meatballs slightly before assembling the dish to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
