Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines the comforting flavors of classic meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese in one delicious dish. It’s perfect for a family dinner when you want something hearty and satisfying with a twist.

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
• 1/4 cup milk (for meatloaf)
• 2 tbsp butter (for cheese sauce)
• 2 cups milk (for cheese sauce)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dry mustard
• 2 tbsp flour

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Mix well and press the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
3. Step 3: Bake the meatloaf layer for 20 minutes.
4. Step 4: While the meatloaf bakes, cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
5. Step 5: For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for one minute until fragrant.
6. Step 6: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard.
7. Step 7: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Step 8: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then pour this mixture evenly over the baked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle any remaining cheese on top.
9. Step 9: Bake the casserole for an additional 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture for extra veggies.
• Try whole wheat or gluten-free macaroni and breadcrumbs to suit dietary needs.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual servings. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be sure to monitor cooking times, as they may cook faster than beef.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for several hours or overnight before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy days.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 54 reviews

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-dish meal combining savory meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese. Ground beef meatloaf is baked as a base, topped with a rich homemade cheese sauce mixed with macaroni, and finished with a golden, bubbly cheese layer. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole blends classic flavors with ease for a satisfying dish.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatloaf

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper

Macaroni

• 2 cups uncooked macaroni

Cheese Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dry mustard
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf and casserole.
2. Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined and then press the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish to form the meatloaf base.
3. Bake Meatloaf: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf for 20 minutes to partially cook it and allow it to set.
4. Cook Macaroni: While the meatloaf bakes, cook the macaroni in boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain the macaroni well and set aside.
5. Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for about one minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens. Then season the sauce with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard. Stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
6. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat all the pasta evenly.
7. Assemble Casserole: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the partially baked meatloaf in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
8. Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top, and the casserole is heated through.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meatloaf option.
• For a stronger cheese flavor, use sharp cheddar or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.
• Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking to make serving easier.
• Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf; panko can be used for a lighter texture.
• Use whole milk or 2% milk for a creamier cheese sauce.

Keywords: Mac and Cheese, Meatloaf Casserole, Comfort Food, Baked Casserole, Cheesy Meatloaf