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Ultimate Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole - featured image

This casserole combines creamy mac and cheese with hearty meatloaf for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner recipe.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup ketchup or BBQ sauce (plus extra for topping)
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, diced onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
  3. Press the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of your casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer. Bake for 20 minutes to partially cook.
  4. While the meatloaf bakes, boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  5. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, forming a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly, and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  6. Toss the cooked macaroni in the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  7. Spread the mac and cheese over the partially baked meatloaf layer. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Drizzle additional ketchup or BBQ sauce over the mac and cheese layer for extra flavor.
  9. Return the casserole dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and slightly browned on top.
  10. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end. Customize the cheese or add spices for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, meatloaf, casserole, comfort food, dinner recipe