Description
This Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines creamy, cheesy mac and cheese with savory ground meatloaf layered into a hearty baked dish. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights, it offers comforting flavors, easy prep, and customizable options for all tastes and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/3 cup tomato sauce or ketchup
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
Macaroni and Cheese Base
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Macaroni and Cheese Base: Boil the elbow macaroni until just al dente. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat, melt in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
- Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, bread crumbs, tomato sauce or ketchup, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs. Mix until just combined without overworking the meat.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a baking dish and spread half of the mac and cheese evenly on the bottom. Layer the meatloaf mixture over the mac and cheese, pressing gently to form an even layer. Cover with the remaining mac and cheese.
- Bake Until Perfect: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is golden and bubbly. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting and a creamier sauce.
- Handle the meat mixture gently to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be slightly firm.
- Letting the casserole rest helps it hold its shape and meld flavors.
- Mix sharp and mild cheeses for a balanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 casserole)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, meatloaf casserole, comfort food, one-pot meal, family dinner, cheesy casserole
