Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines two classic comfort foods into one delicious dish! A hearty meatloaf base topped with creamy mac and cheese, then finished with a cheesy, crispy topping. Perfect for family dinners or when you need a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
-
For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
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Prepare the Meatloaf:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes until partially cooked. -
Make the Mac and Cheese:
While the meatloaf is baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. -
Assemble the Casserole:
Remove the meatloaf layer from the oven and carefully spread the mac and cheese mixture over the top.
Sprinkle the extra shredded cheese and breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese layer for a crispy topping. -
Bake:
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the meatloaf is fully cooked. -
Serve:
Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty, cheesy casserole!
Notes
- You can swap the cheddar cheese for a blend of your favorite cheeses, like mozzarella or gouda, for added flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the casserole
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg