Name: Delicious Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: For the Meatloaf Layer:; 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or beef + pork blend); 1 small onion, finely diced; ½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers); 1 large egg; ¼ cup ketchup; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; For the Mac and Cheese Layer:; 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ tsp mustard powder; Salt & pepper, to taste; Optional Topping:; ½ cup shredded cheese; ¼ cup crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs

Combining two beloved comfort foods into one delightful dish, Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate family meal that pleases everyone at the table. This recipe takes the classic meatloaf and pairs it with creamy, cheesy baked macaroni, creating an unforgettable flavor explosion. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish brings back the nostalgia of childhood meals while satisfying adult cravings for comfort food. With its hearty ingredients and layered textures, every bite is a warm hug for your taste buds.

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. It utilizes easy-to-find pantry staples, and the best part is that it can be prepared in just one dish, which means less cleanup for you! Families will love that both kids and adults can enjoy this cheesy, savory delight without a fuss. Plus, the casserole is perfect for meal prep as it retains its flavor and texture beautifully when stored and reheated. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this casserole will surely steal the spotlight.

Why You’ll Love This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Easy to make: With simple pantry ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
Family-friendly: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for gatherings.
Perfect for meal prep: This dish stores well and reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers easily!
Customizable: Switch up the meats, cheeses, or even mix in extra veggies to suit your preferences.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into this delicious casserole creation, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you need to bake. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish for easy release of your casserole once it’s baked. You’ll need a large mixing bowl for the meatloaf and a saucepan for the cheese sauce. A whisk comes in handy for creating a smooth and creamy cheese sauce, while a wooden spoon will help with mixing the meatloaf ingredients. Make sure to also have a large pot for cooking the macaroni and a colander for draining it. With everything ready to go, you’re set for a seamless cooking experience.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Layer:
1 ½ lbs ground beef (or beef + pork blend)
1 small onion, finely diced
½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
1 large egg
¼ cup ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ tsp mustard powder
Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Topping:
½ cup shredded cheese
¼ cup crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, finely diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper together. It’s important to mix gently to keep the meatloaf tender. Once combined, evenly press the mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish to form a solid base for your casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

While your meatloaf base is set, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add in the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 6-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. The al dente texture will help the macaroni maintain its form even after combining with the cheese sauce and baking.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. After it melts, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about a minute to cook off the raw flavor. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while continuing to whisk, which helps prevent lumps. Cook this mixture until it thickens, usually around 3-4 minutes. Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, mustard powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Now, fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring each piece is coated in the cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

Spread the creamy mac and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf base you prepared earlier. For those who like extra cheesiness or a bit of crunch, sprinkle more cheese or crispy fried onions on top. Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. After baking, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving to let everything set.

Variations

Protein: Switch the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version or use a blend of meats for extra flavor.
Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider mixing in cooked veggies such as spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli into the macaroni and cheese layer.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as smoked paprika or chili powder for a kick, or add fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.

Cooking Notes

Ensure not to overmix the meatloaf ingredients to keep the texture tender.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
If you’re preparing this in advance, feel free to assemble everything beforehand and bake when ready.
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Tips

For a creamier mac and cheese layer, add an extra splash of milk or a dollop of cream.
Toast breadcrumbs in a little butter before adding them on top for a delicious crunch.
Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a more decadent flavor, like gouda or pepper jack.
Use leftovers in a sandwich or wrap for a delicious lunch option; it’s just as tasty the next day!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 480 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 710mg

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add some extra time to the baking if it’s cold from the fridge.

What can I substitute for the breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers, panko, or even oatmeal as a binder in the meatloaf layer.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking! Just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. To cook from frozen, add 15-20 extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole embodies all the comfort you could ever want in one hearty dish. With its layers of savory meatloaf and creamy macaroni, it’s the kind of meal that warms both the heart and the stomach. The enticing flavors and convenience of this casserole make it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Once you’ve tried this recipe, share your experience in the comments or let us know how you customized it to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking adventure!