Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Chicken Meatballs

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This Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Chicken Meatballs is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. The creamy, cheesy pasta is paired with tender, flavorful chicken meatballs, baked to golden perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy cravings for a classic comfort food with a protein-packed twist.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra cheesiness)
  • 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (melted, for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Meatballs:
  • In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
  • Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Cook the meatballs for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides and cooked through. Set aside.
  1. Cook the Macaroni:
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  1. Make the Cheese Sauce:
  • In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  • Add the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella (if using), mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  1. Assemble the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:
  • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
  • Pour the mac ‘n’ cheese into a greased baking dish. Nestle the chicken meatballs into the macaroni mixture.
  1. Add Topping and Bake:
  • In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac ‘n’ cheese.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  1. Serve:
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Chicken Meatballs!

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