Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Chicken Meatballs

Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Chicken Meatballs: A Comfort Food Extravaganza

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that combines the classic comfort of mac ‘n’ cheese with a protein-packed twist – Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Chicken Meatballs. This delightful fusion transforms a beloved dish into a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you crave a comforting treat. Join us as we unravel the secrets to creating this delicious harmony of flavors.

Ingredients

Embark on this savory adventure with the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil for greasing

For the Mac ‘n’ Cheese:

  • 16 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Chicken Meatball Magic:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
  • In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Shape the mixture into meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.

2. Mac ‘n’ Cheese Mastery:

  • Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.
  • Add cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
  • Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring each noodle is generously coated.

3. Baking Brilliance:

  • Grease a baking dish and transfer the mac ‘n’ cheese mixture into it. Nestle the baked chicken meatballs into the mac ‘n’ cheese.
  • In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this topping over the mac ‘n’ cheese and meatballs.

4. Oven Odyssey:

  • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dish is bubbling with cheesy goodness.

5. Garnish Grandeur:

  • Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color.

6. Serve and Savor:

  • Scoop out generous portions of the Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Chicken Meatballs onto plates. Enjoy the symphony of flavors in every bite.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Bite-sized Bliss: Make mini chicken meatballs for a bite-sized version of this dish, perfect for appetizers or snacks.
  • Cheese Lover’s Dream: Experiment with different cheese blends for the sauce, such as gouda, fontina, or gruyere, to add complexity to the flavor.
  • Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Veggie Infusion: Sneak in some veggies like chopped spinach or roasted broccoli for added nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought chicken meatballs?

A: Absolutely! While homemade adds a personal touch, store-bought chicken meatballs can be a convenient option for a quicker preparation.

Q: Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?

A: Certainly! Assemble the dish without baking, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, allowing a few extra minutes if taken directly from the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shapes or use whole wheat or gluten-free options.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto-Friendly Adaptations:

  • Substitute almond flour for breadcrumbs in the chicken meatballs.
  • Replace elbow macaroni with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative.

Low-Carb Variations:

  • Use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for the cheese sauce thickening agent.
  • Opt for a low-carb pasta alternative or spiralized veggies. A Fusion of Flavors

In conclusion, Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Chicken Meatballs is not just a meal; it’s a symphony of flavors that marries the comfort of mac ‘n’ cheese with the savory goodness of chicken meatballs. Whether served as a family dinner, potluck contribution, or a satisfying solo indulgence, this dish is bound to become a staple in your repertoire of comforting recipes.

So, set your oven to bake, embrace the aroma of bubbling cheese, and savor each forkful of this comforting masterpiece. The Baked Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Chicken Meatballs is a celebration of flavors, bringing joy to your table and making every bite a moment to remember.