Combine two classic comfort foods into one irresistible dish with this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. Savory meatloaf topped with creamy mac and cheese makes for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Directions
- Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into a greased baking dish and shape into a loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Cook the Macaroni:
- While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Mac and Cheese:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 30 minutes.
- Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
- Sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the hearty and cheesy blend of mac and cheese with savory meatloaf!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calorie Count: 600 kcal per serving
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or topping the casserole with cooked bacon bits before baking.
Conclusion
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole offers a delightful mash-up of creamy mac and cheese and savory meatloaf. Perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal!