Description
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines two classic comfort foods in one delicious dish. Juicy meatloaf forms the base, topped with creamy mac and cheese and a crispy, cheesy topping for the perfect family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the meatloaf layer:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- For the mac and cheese layer:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the meatloaf layer:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a flat layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes until partially cooked. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Prepare the mac and cheese:
- While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Assemble and bake:
- Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf layer.
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the mac and cheese, followed by the buttered breadcrumbs.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the meatloaf is fully cooked.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped bell peppers or grated carrots to the meatloaf mixture.
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer for the mac and cheese layer, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 22g