Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish combining savory ground beef meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese. Baked together in one casserole, it offers a delicious blend of tender meat, cheesy pasta, and a flavorful sauce perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is at the right temperature for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Press the mixture firmly into a greased baking dish to form the meatloaf base.
- Bake Meatloaf Base: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the meatloaf layer for 20 minutes to begin cooking the beef.
- Cook Macaroni: While the meatloaf bakes, cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about one minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce thoroughly.
- Add Macaroni Cheese Over Meatloaf: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the partially baked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle any remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra cheesiness.
- Bake Casserole: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
Notes
- Ensure the meatloaf layer is pressed firmly to help it hold its shape during baking.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
- You can use whole wheat macaroni to add more fiber to the dish.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving to allow it to set.
- Adjust seasoning in the cheese sauce to taste, especially salt and pepper.
Keywords: mac and cheese, meatloaf casserole, comfort food, baked casserole, ground beef recipe, cheesy pasta, family dinner
