Description
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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Notes
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sodium: 710 mg
- Protein: 30 g