Description
Imagine the rich, savory goodness of classic meatloaf uniting with the creamy, cheesy perfection of mac and cheese – all in one glorious, bubbling casserole. This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is comforting, hearty, and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
1 (16-ounce) box elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk, warmed
1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
½ cup plain breadcrumbs
½ cup milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
¼ cup finely chopped yellow onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons ketchup, plus more for topping
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in warm milk until thickened and simmering.
4. Stir in dry mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups cheddar and all Monterey Jack cheese until smooth.
6. Add cooked pasta and mix well. Set aside.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
9. Press meatloaf mixture evenly into prepared dish.
10. Spread mac and cheese mixture over meatloaf layer.
11. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and optional drizzle of ketchup.
12. Bake 35–45 minutes, until meatloaf is cooked through (160°F) and casserole is bubbly.
13. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Don’t overmix the meatloaf for tenderness.
Use warm milk for a smooth cheese sauce.
Add a pinch of cayenne for spice.
Assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake later.
Try adding jalapeño, grated carrots, or zucchini to the meatloaf.
Experiment with different cheeses like gruyere or gouda.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mac and cheese, meatloaf, casserole, comfort food, baked dinner, cheesy, family meal