Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole brings together two all-time favorites: juicy, savory meatloaf and creamy, cheesy macaroni. The result is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any dinner table. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Loaded with flavor and easy to make, it’s the ultimate comfort food experience!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup ketchup (for topping)
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set it aside. - Prepare the Meatloaf Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, diced onion, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Spread the ketchup evenly over the top. - Bake the Meatloaf:
Bake the meatloaf base in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until partially cooked. Remove from the oven, but keep the oven on. - Prepare the Mac and Cheese:
While the meatloaf is baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the sauce thickens. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mustard powder until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni. - Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the prepared mac and cheese evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf base. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top, if desired. - Bake the Casserole:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is bubbly and golden. - Serve:
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the rich, savory goodness of this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole!
Notes
- For an extra cheesy experience, feel free to top the casserole with more shredded cheddar cheese before baking.
- You can make the meatloaf base ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save time on busy days.
- This recipe is perfect for customizing with your favorite cheese variations or adding extras like cooked bacon or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, Cheesy Meatloaf Pasta Bake, Meatloaf with Mac and Cheese, Meatloaf Casserole, Comfort Food Recipes, Mac and Cheese Dinner