Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the classic flavors of meatloaf with creamy, cheesy macaroni. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole layers savory ground beef meatloaf with a rich cheddar cheese sauce and tender macaroni, baked to bubbly perfection.
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 (divided)
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dry mustard
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare 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 everything well until incorporated.
- Shape and Bake Meatloaf: Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into a greased baking dish. Place in the oven and bake for 20 minutes to partially cook the meatloaf.
- Cook Macaroni: While the meatloaf is baking, cook the macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in 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.
- Add Cheese to Sauce: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Assemble Casserole: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then pour this mixture evenly over the partially baked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden and the meatloaf is fully cooked.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Ensure macaroni is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy after baking.
- Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking before serving to allow it to set.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Adjust spices in the cheese sauce to taste if you prefer it spicier or milder.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mac and cheese meatloaf, casserole, comfort food, baked casserole, cheesy meatloaf, family dinner
