Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 50 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines two beloved comfort dishes into one hearty, satisfying meal. Ground beef meatloaf forms the base, topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni and a golden cheese crust baked to perfection. Ideal for family dinners or cozy nights, this casserole is rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare with a perfect balance of savory meatloaf and luscious macaroni and cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup milk (for meatloaf)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper

Macaroni

  • 2 cups uncooked macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups milk (for cheese sauce)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dry mustard
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided; some in sauce, some for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf and final casserole.
  2. 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 well blended and press the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
  3. Bake Meatloaf Base: Bake the meatloaf layer in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to set the base layer.
  4. Cook Macaroni: While the meatloaf bakes, cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  5. Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about one minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  6. Thicken Sauce and Add Seasoning: Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard.
  7. Melt Cheese in Sauce: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  8. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce thoroughly.
  9. Assemble Casserole: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly over the partially baked meatloaf in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
  10. Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes, until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

  • Use a baking dish approximately 9×9 inches or similar size for best layering.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder to the meatloaf mixture or cheese sauce.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
  • The paprika adds a subtle smoky note; adjust according to taste.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://foodtokinspired.com/mac-and-cheese-meatloaf-casserole-the-ultimate-comfort-food-mashup-recipe/