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Comforting Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

comforting mac and cheese meatloaf casserole - featured image
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A nostalgic and easy casserole combining creamy macaroni and cheese with savory meatloaf, perfect for family dinners and cozy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned; Panko works well)
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp ketchup (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or small pasta shapes
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Extra shredded cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, 2 tbsp ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Spread an extra tablespoon of ketchup over the top.
  5. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly. Slowly whisk in 2 cups milk and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, dry mustard powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  7. Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Spoon the cheesy macaroni over the meatloaf layer, spreading evenly.
  8. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden. For extra cheese, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Do not overmix the meatloaf mixture to avoid toughness. Cook pasta al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven. Cover casserole with foil if top browns too quickly. Rest casserole before serving to redistribute moisture. Can prepare meatloaf and cheese sauce ahead and refrigerate before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, meatloaf, casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, cheesy, baked

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