Description

Mini Meatball Mac and Cheese is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together creamy, cheesy macaroni with flavorful, bite-sized mini meatballs. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you want a warm homemade meal, this recipe uses simple ingredients and offers customizable variations to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Mini Meatballs

1 lb ground beef or turkey
¼ cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni (use gluten-free if needed)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

Extra shredded cheddar cheese
Extra breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)

Instructions

Prepare the Mini Meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into small, bite-sized meatballs. Set aside.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Cook the mini meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the pan and keep warm.
Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour if using to thicken. Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Once heated, stir in shredded cheddar cheese and Dijon mustard until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Meatballs: Add the cooked pasta and mini meatballs back into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Gently stir to coat everything evenly and let it heat through for a few minutes.
Serve and Enjoy: Transfer to bowls or a baking dish for serving. Optionally, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs and broil for 2-3 minutes to create a crispy crust.

Notes

Use sharp cheddar cheese for a bold, melty flavor.
Do not overcook the pasta; slightly undercook it so it finishes cooking in the sauce.
Make mini meatballs small for even cooking and easy bites.
Season meatballs and sauce moderately to keep the cheese flavor prominent.
Broil with breadcrumbs and cheese on top for a crispy finish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop and Broiling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 550
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: mac and cheese, mini meatballs, comfort food, cheesy pasta, family dinner, quick dinner, kid-friendly