Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines the comforting flavors of classic meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese, all baked together in a single dish. With layers of seasoned ground beef and cheesy mac, topped with melted cheddar and fresh herbs, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Base
- 1½ pounds (680g) ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Mac and Cheese
- 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (475ml) milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup extra shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish
- Chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Meatloaf Base: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until combined. Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes, then carefully drain off any excess grease.
- Prepare Mac and Cheese: While the meatloaf is baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked elbow macaroni, paprika if using, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the prepared mac and cheese evenly over the baked meatloaf base in the baking dish. Sprinkle the extra shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top if desired.
- Bake Again: Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Once done, remove from oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to set before slicing.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the casserole as a fresh garnish before serving to add color and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, cook the macaroni just until al dente before mixing into the cheese sauce to prevent overcooking during baking.
- To reduce grease, use lean ground beef or turkey instead of higher fat content beef.
- The paprika is optional but adds a nice subtle smoky flavor and color to the cheese sauce.
- Letting the casserole rest before slicing helps it hold shape and makes serving easier.
- You can prepare the meatloaf base a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking.
