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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

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A comforting casserole that layers creamy mac and cheese with savory meatloaf for the ultimate comfort food mash-up. Perfect for family dinners and easy meal prep.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or beef-pork blend
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
  • Optional: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp mustard powder, a dash of hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook elbow macaroni until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux; cook for 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.
  5. Remove from heat, stir in most of the shredded cheddar until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. In a bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Mix until just combined.
  7. Spread half of the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13″ casserole dish.
  8. Shape meatloaf mixture into an even layer over the pasta.
  9. Top meatloaf with remaining mac and cheese. Sprinkle remaining cheddar on top.
  10. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until meat is cooked through (160°F / 71°C) and cheese is golden and bubbly.
  11. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy twist.
  • Include spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added veggies.
  • Use barbecue sauce instead of ketchup and top with crispy onions for a BBQ flavor.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months.
  • Reheat in microwave or oven until warmed through.

Nutrition

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