Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the warm embrace of mac and cheese or the hearty satisfaction of a well-prepared meatloaf. Now imagine bringing these two beloved classics together in a single dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness. This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. It’s the perfect meal for family gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or any occasion where you want to evoke that cozy feeling of home.

With layers of deliciousness, this casserole features a juicy ground beef meatloaf topped with creamy macaroni and cheese, all finished to perfection in the oven. It’s a meal that will have everyone at the table coming back for seconds, if not thirds. This dish will quickly become a favorite among kids and adults alike, thanks to its familiar flavors and satisfying textures.

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

These are the key ingredients you’ll need to create this delectable casserole.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced 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.
4. While the meatloaf bakes, cook the macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
5. For the cheese sauce, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for one minute.
6. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk until the mixture thickens. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and pour it over the meatloaf layer. Top with remaining cheese.
8. Bake for an additional 25 minutes or until bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• Ingredient Substitutions: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. Swap out cheddar cheese for a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Optional Variations: Try adding cooked vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the macaroni for extra nutrition. For a spicy kick, mix in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Storage or Reheating Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Generic image description or alt-text if needed.