Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that expertly combines creamy macaroni and cheese with savory meatloaf in a layered casserole. Perfect for family dinners, it offers the best of both worlds in one satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Layer
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Macaroni and Cheese Layer
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dry mustard
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (1 1/2 cups for sauce, 1/2 cup for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Meatloaf: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake Meatloaf: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf layer for 20 minutes to partially cook it.
- Cook Macaroni: While the meatloaf is baking, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk and continue cooking until the sauce thickens. Add 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp dry mustard, and 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture over the partially baked meatloaf layer in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Notes
- This dish is a comforting fusion of two classic favorites, making it a family-friendly meal ideal for cozy nights.
- Make sure not to overcook the meatloaf in the first bake as it will continue cooking during the second bake.
- Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs such as garlic powder or parsley for extra flavor.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
