Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines two classics into one delicious meal. Imagine a warm, cheesy mac and cheese layered over savory meatloaf – it’s like a big hug on a plate! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to bring everyone together for a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the perfect blend of flavors and textures while being budget-friendly and easy to prepare. It’s a great way to satisfy picky eaters because who doesn’t love mac and cheese and meatloaf? Plus, it’s a fantastic one-dish meal that makes cleanup a breeze! Serve it during family dinners or when you’re looking to impress guests without much fuss.

How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups uncooked macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups milk (divided)
• Spices: salt, pepper, paprika, dry mustard

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1 cup of milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well and press this mixture into a greased baking dish.
3. Bake the meatloaf layer in the oven for about 20 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
5. For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for one minute, stirring often.
6. Gradually whisk in the remaining 1 cup of milk until the mixture thickens. Add the spices and cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
7. Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and pour this over the baked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
8. Bake for an additional 25 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden.

How to Serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

This dish is best served warm, right out of the oven. Consider garnishing it with some fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks!

How to Store Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Make sure to fully mix the meatloaf ingredients for an even texture.
• Experiment with different cheeses in the sauce for a flavor twist!
• Add some vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the meatloaf layer for extra nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that will still give you delicious results and is leaner than beef!

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf and cheese sauce a day in advance. Just assemble in the baking dish and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Is it okay to freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Just be sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil. It should last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Reheat it directly from frozen, but be prepared for a longer baking time!

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

A comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of mac and cheese and meatloaf, perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Meatloaf Layer

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup milk divided
• salt salt to taste
• pepper pepper to taste

Mac and Cheese

• 2 cups uncooked macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
• 1 cup milk for cheese sauce
• butter butter for cheese sauce, amount to taste
• 1 tbsp flour for thickening
• paprika, dry mustard to taste for cheese sauce

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1 cup of milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well and press this mixture into a greased baking dish.
3. Bake the meatloaf layer in the oven for about 20 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
5. For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for one minute, stirring often.
6. Gradually whisk in the remaining 1 cup of milk until the mixture thickens. Add spices and cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Assembly and Baking

1. Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and pour this over the baked meatloaf layer.
2. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
3. Bake for an additional 25 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden.

Notes

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. Consider prepping ahead of time and freezing leftovers for convenience.