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Mini Meatball Mac and Cheese

Mini Meatball Mac and Cheese
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Mini Meatball Mac and Cheese is a comforting and hearty dish that combines creamy, cheesy macaroni with tender, flavorful mini meatballs. Perfect for families and kids, this quick and easy one-pot meal is ready in under 30 minutes, offering a playful twist on classic mac and cheese with juicy meatballs that soak up every bite of cheesy sauce. Customizable and satisfying, it brings warmth and joy to any dinner table.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • Elbow macaroni – 8 ounces

Mini Meatballs

  • Ground beef or turkey – 1 pound
  • Breadcrumbs – 1/2 cup
  • Egg – 1 large
  • Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon

Cheese Sauce

  • Butter – 3 tablespoons
  • All-purpose flour – 3 tablespoons
  • Milk (full-fat) – 2 1/2 cups
  • Shredded cheddar cheese – 2 cups
  • Grated Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup
  • Salt – to taste
  • Black pepper – to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped – 2 tablespoons

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mini Meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, then roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
  2. Cook the Meatballs: Bake the mini meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes or until browned and cooked through, turning them halfway through baking for even cooking.
  3. Cook the Pasta: While the meatballs are baking, boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until smooth and gooey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Mac, Cheese, and Meatballs: Gently fold the cooked pasta and warm mini meatballs into the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated with cheesy goodness.
  6. Serve Warm: Transfer the mixture to bowls or a baking dish, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your comforting Mini Meatball Mac and Cheese.

Notes

  • Measure cheese carefully to avoid an oily sauce; stick to the recipe amounts for balance.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; al dente texture maintains well in the sauce.
  • Use full-fat milk or cream to achieve a rich, creamy texture; avoid skim milk.
  • Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
  • Mix meatball ingredients gently to keep them tender and avoid toughness.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini meatball mac and cheese, comfort food, kid-friendly dinner, cheesy macaroni, easy weeknight meal

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/mini-meatball-mac-and-cheese/