Name: Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 2 cups uncooked macaroni; 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

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Introduction

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting twist on two classic family favorites. This hearty dish layers seasoned meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Easy to prepare and full of rich flavors, it’s sure to become a new household staple.

A close-up image of a thick slice of baked macaroni and cheese layered with creamy macaroni pasta at the bottom, a middle layer of ground beef mixed with sauce, and a top crust of golden-brown melted cheese with bubbling and slightly crispy spots; the pasta looks soft and creamy, and the cheese has a rich yellow-orange color with specks of black pepper. The dish sits on a white plate with a blue rim, placed on a white marbled surface, and a fork is partly visible near the food. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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 into a greased baking dish to form the meatloaf layer.
Step 3: Bake the meatloaf for 20 minutes.
Step 4: While the meatloaf bakes, cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: To make the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for one minute until it forms a smooth paste.
Step 6: Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Season with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, paprika, and dry mustard. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 7: Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then pour this mixture evenly over the partially baked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese on top.
Step 8: Bake the casserole for an additional 25 minutes, or until it is bubbly and the cheese is golden.

Tips & Variations

Use sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and gouda for extra flavor and creaminess.
Add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meatloaf mix for added texture and nutrition.
For a spicier version, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños in the cheese sauce.
Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Storage

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a white rectangular baking dish with a baked macaroni and ground beef casserole. The top layer is browned melted cheddar cheese with a slightly crispy texture and small green herb sprinkles. Below the cheese, there is a thick layer of cooked ground beef that appears moist and well-seasoned. The bottom layer consists of cooked elbow macaroni pasta with a light yellow color, lightly coated with sauce. The casserole has a scoop taken out from the corner, revealing the three distinct layers. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a blue and white checkered cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it ideal for meal prep and busy weeknights.

Can I use gluten-free ingredients?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. There are many good gluten-free pasta options available as well.