casserole. This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a fusion of two all-time favorites: creamy macaroni and cheese combined with the savory, hearty goodness of meatloaf. It’s the ultimate dinner idea for families, gatherings, or anyone craving a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Fusion: Combining macaroni and cheese with meatloaf creates a rich, hearty dish perfect for any occasion.
- Easy to Make: This casserole is straightforward to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
- Kid-Friendly: Children love the creamy mac and cheese, while adults appreciate the flavorful meatloaf layer.
- Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients make this recipe cost-effective while still offering a gourmet feel.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this mouthwatering casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 pound (450g) of ground beef or ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Layer
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press it down gently to create a compact layer.
3. Cook the Macaroni
- Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Spread the mac and cheese mixture over the meatloaf layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Slice into portions and enjoy the perfect blend of cheesy and meaty flavors.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Customize the Meat Layer: Add your favorite seasonings, such as Italian herbs or chili powder, for extra flavor.
- Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a subtle kick.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.