Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Looking for a meal that combines two ultimate comfort foods into one irresistible dish? This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole brings together creamy mac and cheese with a savory, flavorful meatloaf base. It's a hearty, cheesy, and downright delicious dish that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to make and sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike! Ready to get started? Let’s dive into this indulgent, satisfying casserole recipe.

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What is a “Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole”?

A Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup, featuring a base of juicy, seasoned meatloaf topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni. The meatloaf layer is flavored with ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, and spices, while the mac and cheese layer is rich, creamy, and baked to golden perfection. It’s the perfect meal for those who love a classic meatloaf but also crave the cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese. This casserole is easy to prepare, filling, and a real crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients List for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole:

For the Meatloaf Layer:

1. 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
2. ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian style)
3. 1 egg (beaten)
4. ¼ cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
5. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
6. 1 small onion (finely chopped)
7. 2 cloves garlic (minced)
8. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
9. Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mac and Cheese Layer:

1. 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
2. 2 tablespoons butter
3. 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4. 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
5. 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
6. ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
7. ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
8. ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
9. Salt and pepper to taste
10. ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
11. 2 tablespoons melted butter (for breadcrumbs)

Ingredients List for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole (Healthier Option)

For a lighter version of this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, here are some substitutions:

1. 1 ½ lbs ground turkey (or lean ground beef)
2. ½ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
3. 1 egg (or egg white for lower fat)
4. ¼ cup low-sugar ketchup
5. Whole wheat pasta (or gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version)
6. 1 ½ cups reduced-fat cheese (instead of full-fat cheese)
7. ¼ cup Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess in the mac and cheese)
8. Low-fat milk (instead of whole milk)

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is super versatile, and you can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Ground Meat Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a meatloaf blend (beef, pork, and veal).
• Cheese: While cheddar is classic, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
• Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use penne, rotini, or even whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
• Add Veggies: Sneak in some nutrition by adding finely chopped carrots, spinach, or mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Layer

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Press into the Baking Dish: Press the meatloaf mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, forming an even layer.
3. Bake the Meatloaf: Bake the meatloaf layer in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is partially cooked but not fully done (it will finish cooking with the mac and cheese layer). Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the meatloaf is baking, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Make a Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly (this is your roux).
2. Add the Milk: Slowly whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer, cooking until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, mustard powder (optional), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and smooth.
4. Combine with Pasta: Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well-coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the Mac and Cheese: Spoon the macaroni and cheese evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf layer.
2. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.

Step 6: Add Breadcrumb Topping (Optional)

For an extra crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle it over the top of the cheese layer.

Step 7: Bake

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatloaf is fully cooked (the internal temperature of the meat should reach 160°F).

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!

How to Cook Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Meatloaf: Mix ground beef with seasonings, press into the baking dish, and pre-bake for about 20-25 minutes.
2. Cook the Macaroni: Boil the pasta while the meatloaf is baking, then set it aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce: Create a roux, add milk, and stir in cheese to make a smooth and creamy cheese sauce.
4. Assemble the Layers: Layer the macaroni and cheese over the meatloaf, then top with extra cheese (and breadcrumbs, if using).
5. Bake Again: Finish baking until the casserole is golden, bubbly, and cooked through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Cooking the Meatloaf Enough: Make sure the meatloaf is partially cooked before adding the mac and cheese on top. This ensures the meatloaf is fully cooked and tender.
2. Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy when baked.
3. Undersalting the Cheese Sauce: Taste the cheese sauce before assembling the casserole to ensure it’s well-seasoned. Cheese sauces can sometimes need a bit more salt to bring out the flavor.
4. Skipping the Breadcrumbs: For extra texture, don’t skip the crunchy breadcrumb topping! It adds a delightful contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Even though this dish is a hearty, rustic meal, you can still make it look great with a few presentation tips:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and brightness to the dish.
2. Serve with Sides: This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
3. Slice and Serve: Cut the casserole into squares for easy, individual servings, ensuring each portion has a bit of both meatloaf and mac and cheese.

How to Serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the table, letting everyone help themselves.
• Portion Control: For a more elegant presentation, cut the casserole into individual portions and serve each on a plate with a side of vegetables or salad.

Presentation Ideas for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

1. Cast Iron Skillet: Serve the casserole in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, homestyle look.
2. Cheese Pull: Allow the cheese to be slightly melty on top, so you get that perfect “cheese pull” when serving.
3. Add Garnish: Top with chopped parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of paprika for a bit of color.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Simply assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version of this casserole.

Q: Can I use boxed mac and cheese for this recipe?
A: If you’re short on time, you can use boxed mac and cheese instead of making the cheese sauce from scratch. Just follow the package instructions and use it in place of the homemade mac and cheese layer.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this casserole gluten-free.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf layer?
A: Definitely! You can add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, spinach, or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrition.

Q: How can I make the casserole spicier?
A: Add a dash of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the meatloaf or cheese sauce for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup—bringing together two beloved classics in one delicious dish. With layers of juicy, flavorful meatloaf and creamy, cheesy macaroni, it’s the perfect meal for a cozy family dinner or gathering. Easy to customize and even easier to devour, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious flavors of this hearty, satisfying casserole!

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