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?

A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.

• Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

A: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Mozzarella or pepper jack cheese can be great alternatives.

• Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

• Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

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.