Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 56 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Nut-Free

Description

Mac and cheese meatloaf casserole combines the rich, savory flavors of juicy meatloaf with creamy, cheesy macaroni in a baked casserole that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner. This hearty dish layers seasoned ground beef and pork base with a luscious mac and cheese topping, resulting in a golden, bubbly, and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Meatloaf Base

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork (optional for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Mac and Cheese Sauce

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

  • Chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork (if using), breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
  2. Form Meatloaf Base and Bake: Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish creating a flat layer. Place in the oven and bake for 20 minutes to start cooking the meat.
  3. Cook Macaroni: While the meat is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  4. Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Add Cheese to Sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, mustard powder (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  6. Combine Macaroni with Cheese Sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly.
  7. Assemble Casserole: Remove the meatloaf base from the oven. Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over the baked meat layer.
  8. Bake the Casserole: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the mac and cheese is bubbly and the top is slightly golden.
  9. Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let it set. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh touch.

Notes

  • For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork mixture.
  • Add extra shredded cheddar cheese on top before the final bake for a cheesier crust.
  • Drizzle ketchup or barbecue sauce over the meatloaf layer before adding macaroni for a classic meatloaf flavor contrast.

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