Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

why make this recipe

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting dish that combines two classics into one delicious meal. It is simple to make and is perfect for families or when you have friends over. The cheesy macaroni mixed with savory meatloaf creates a satisfying blend of flavors that everyone will love.

how to make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup macaroni
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup ketchup (optional for topping)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, milk, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Stir in the cooked macaroni and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Transfer mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Top with remaining cheese and ketchup if desired.
7. Bake for 45 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is golden.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

how to serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Serve this casserole warm, directly from the oven, for a cozy family dinner. It pairs nicely with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables. Leftovers can also be reheated for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week.

how to store Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will last for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole if you need to keep it longer. Just make sure to cover it well before placing it in the freezer.

tips to make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Make sure not to overcook the macaroni, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• For added flavor, consider mixing in your favorite spices or herbs.
• You can adjust the amount of cheese depending on how cheesy you want it!

variation

Feel free to use different ground meats, such as turkey or chicken. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use different types of cheese, like mozzarella or gouda, for a unique flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, it can be frozen for later use. Just make sure to cover it well before freezing.

How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is cooked through and the top is golden brown. You can also check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

A comforting blend of cheesy macaroni and savory meatloaf, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Meat and Macaroni Mixture

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup macaroni Cook according to package instructions
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded Divided, half for mixing and half for topping
• 1/2 cup ketchup (optional for topping)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, milk, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Stir in the cooked macaroni and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Assembly and Baking

1. Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Top with remaining cheese and ketchup if desired.
3. Bake for 45 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is golden.

Serving

1. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Make sure not to overcook the macaroni, as it will continue to cook in the oven. For added flavor, consider mixing in your favorite spices or herbs. You can adjust the amount of cheese depending on how cheesy you want it!