Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup Recipe

Introduction

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect comfort food mashup, combining hearty meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is sure to satisfy your cravings with its rich flavors and warm, cheesy goodness.

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, salt, and pepper. Mix well and press the mixture into a greased baking dish.
3. Step 3: Bake the meatloaf layer for 20 minutes.
4. Step 4: While the meatloaf bakes, cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
5. Step 5: To make the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
6. Step 6: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk and cook until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Step 7: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then pour this mixture evenly over the baked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
8. Step 8: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meatloaf mixture.
• Try using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar for a richer sauce.
• If you prefer, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Top with crushed crackers or additional breadcrumbs before the final bake for a crispy crust.

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 portions on medium power for 1–2 minutes. This casserole does not freeze well due to the creamy sauce.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta instead of macaroni?

Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like shells or penne, but be sure to adjust cooking times according to the package directions.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if coming from cold.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup Recipe

Print Recipe

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This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup combining savory meatloaf with creamy mac and cheese. The dish features a flavorful ground beef meatloaf base topped with cheesy macaroni baked to perfection in the oven, creating a hearty, satisfying casserole perfect for family dinners.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• 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
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dry mustard
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. Make Meatloaf Base: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly, then press the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish to form the meatloaf layer.
3. Bake Meatloaf: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf base for 20 minutes to partially cook it before adding the topping.
4. Cook Macaroni: While the meatloaf is baking, cook the macaroni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
5. Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about one minute to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
6. Add Milk and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard for a flavorful cheese sauce base.
7. Melt Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
8. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated well.
9. Assemble Casserole: Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture evenly over the partially baked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
10. Bake Final Casserole: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.

Notes

• The breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf together; you can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
• For a more intense cheese flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese.
• Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set before serving.
• Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrition.
• If you prefer, use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.

Keywords: mac and cheese, meatloaf casserole, comfort food, cheesy casserole, ground beef casserole, baked mac and cheese, family dinner