Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish combining savory ground beef meatloaf with creamy homemade macaroni and cheese, all baked together in a single casserole. It’s perfect for family dinners and offers a delicious twist on classic comfort foods.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Layer
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Macaroni and Cheese Layer
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided: 1 1/2 cups + 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp mustard powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Other
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish using cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted water until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form Meatloaf Layer: Press the seasoned meat mixture into the greased baking dish, forming an even layer across the bottom.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour, mustard powder, and paprika to form a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes without browning.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Gradually pour in the milk while stirring continuously. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and bubbles. Reduce heat to low.
- Add Cheese to Sauce: Stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine evenly.
- Layer Macaroni on Meatloaf: Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer in the baking dish.
- Add Topping Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese topping is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to set, then slice and serve warm.
Notes
- The baking time may vary depending on your oven; ensure the meat reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For extra flavor, add chopped bell peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a rich, tangy taste, or mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variation.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
