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Mac & Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

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Mac & Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mash-up—featuring a juicy, savory meatloaf base topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni and baked into a bubbly, satisfying casserole. Perfect for cozy family dinners or potlucks, it’s hearty, nostalgic, and always a hit.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course, Casserole
  • Method: Baking, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • For the meatloaf layer:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup bread crumbs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • ½ onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • For the mac and cheese:
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika or mustard powder (optional)
  • For topping (optional):
  • ½ cup extra shredded cheese
  • ¼ cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix all meatloaf ingredients. Press evenly into the dish to form a thick base layer.
  3. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes. Meanwhile, cook the macaroni until just al dente and drain.
  4. In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Stir in cheeses and seasonings until smooth.
  5. Remove meatloaf from oven and drain excess grease. Spoon mac and cheese evenly on top.
  6. Sprinkle extra cheese or topping if desired. Bake for another 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Broil 1–2 minutes for extra browning if needed.
  7. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Add chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots to meatloaf for extra veggies.
  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Stir in jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy twist.
  • Try different cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or Velveeta.
  • Freeze cooled casserole in portions for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/mac-cheese-meatloaf-casserole/