Description
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole blends two comfort food classics into one irresistible dish. A savory meatloaf base is topped with creamy mac and cheese, making it the perfect family dinner for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free for a gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined. Form into a loaf and place in the casserole dish. Bake for 30 minutes.
- While the meatloaf bakes, cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously, and cook until the sauce thickens. Stir in cheese and Dijon mustard (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
- After baking the meatloaf, layer the cooked macaroni on top. Pour cheese sauce over the pasta. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Use lean ground meat for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
