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Why Make This Recipe

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect mix of two beloved comfort foods. If you love meatloaf and mac and cheese, this dish combines them into one delicious meal. It’s hearty, cheesy, and will satisfy anyone’s cravings. Plus, it’s a great way to bring the family together around the dinner table. This casserole is not only easy to make, but it also brings a fun twist to traditional recipes, making it a hit for both kids and adults.

How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 cups uncooked macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1/4 cup milk (for meatloaf)
2 tbsp butter (for cheese sauce)
2 cups milk (for cheese sauce)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dry mustard
2 tbsp flour

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well and press the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Bake the meatloaf for 20 minutes.
While the meatloaf bakes, cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for one minute.
Gradually whisk in milk until the mixture thickens; season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard. Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and pour it over the meatloaf layer. Top with the remaining cheese.
Bake for an additional 25 minutes or until bubbly.

How to Serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

This casserole can be served straight from the oven. Cut into squares and serve it warm. It goes well with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the meal. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an extra touch of flavor.

How to Store Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Once cooled, cover any leftovers with a lid or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Make sure not to overcook the macaroni; it should be just al dente since it will bake longer in the casserole.
Feel free to add in your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrition.
Experiment with different cheese blends for the sauce, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.

Variations

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones and use a gluten-free pasta.

FAQs

Can I use leftovers from meatloaf?
Yes! You can use leftover meatloaf in this recipe, just crumble it over the macaroni instead of making a new meatloaf.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions to keep it simple.