Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup

There’s something heartwarming about a dish that combines two beloved classics into one delicious creation. The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is perfect for cozy family dinners, weekend gatherings, or even making a simple weeknight meal feel special. This savory and cheesy fusion not only fills your stomach but warms your soul, reminding us of home-cooked love. The layers of flavor—savory meatloaf, creamy mac and cheese, and a melty cheese topping—come together to make this dish a standout.

Your family will adore this comforting mashup, and it’s sure to become a new favorite. Light up your dining table with this delicious catered experience, making outings and takeout feel like a distant memory. With this recipe, you’ll serve up smiles, seconds, and maybe even a few requests for your "secret" recipe!

This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups uncooked macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk (for meatloaf)
• 2 tbsp butter (for cheese sauce)
• 2 cups milk (for cheese sauce)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dry mustard
• 2 tbsp flour

Gather your ingredients to create this delicious casserole!

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well and press the mixture into a greased baking dish.
3. Bake the meatloaf for 20 minutes to give it a head start.
4. While the meatloaf is baking, cook the macaroni according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
5. For the cheese sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for one minute to create a roux.
6. Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of milk until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, and pour it over the meatloaf layer. Top with any remaining cheese for an extra gooey finish.
8. Bake for an additional 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Tips & Variations

• Ingredient Substitutions: You can swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta for a gluten-sensitive version.
• Optional Variations: Mix in some cooked vegetables like spinach or peas to add color and nutrition. Try different cheese varieties such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results or in the microwave for a quick meal.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty Level: Easy

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