Description
The Mac & Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines two classic favorites into one irresistible meal. This recipe features a flavorful meatloaf base topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese, and finished with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (or mix of beef & pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or plain)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping, optional)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk (warm)
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (for topping)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a deep 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix lightly until just blended. Press mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form a flat layer.
Step 3: Place in the preheated oven uncovered and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 4: While the meatloaf is baking, cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Step 5: Prepare the cheese sauce. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually pour in warm milk, whisking continuously until smooth and slightly thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 6: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
Step 7: Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the mac and cheese evenly on top of the baked meatloaf base.
Step 8: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly across the mac and cheese layer.
Step 9: Return the dish to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Step 10: Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mac & Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food combination. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and always a hit. The meatloaf is tender and flavorful, the mac and cheese is creamy and cheesy, and the breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch. It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients and is perfect for a cozy night in.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair it with a crusty bread to soak up the delicious cheese sauce.
- Offer a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of hot sauce for those who like a little extra flavor.
Tips
- For a richer flavor, use a blend of ground beef and ground pork in the meatloaf.
- Make sure not to overmix the meatloaf mixture, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
- If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work fine for the topping.
- Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking. You can also use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
Calories: 650
Protein: 40g
Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
The Mac & Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty, delicious, and comforting dish that brings together the best of both worlds. It’s perfect for satisfying your cravings and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the combination of tender meatloaf, creamy mac and cheese, and a crunchy topping in every bite!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking to prevent it from getting soggy.
Q2: Can I freeze the Mac & Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q3: Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Simply substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Ensure that you cook it according to the package directions.
Q4: What can I substitute for the Worcestershire sauce?
A: If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can use a combination of soy sauce and a bit of tamarind paste or vinegar for a similar umami flavor.
Q5: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
A: Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely so they cook evenly.
