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+ servings
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Melty Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Your Family Will Love

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting dish combining savory meatloaf with creamy mac and cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf Base
  • 2 lbs Ground Beef Use lean-to-medium fat (85/15 or 80/20)
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Panko works well for a lighter alternative
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder
  • 1/2 cup Milk Any fat percentage works
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 cup Barbecue Sauce Adds tangy glaze
For the Mac and Cheese Topping
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Classic choice
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Essential for roux
  • 2 tablespoons Flour Works with butter for a smooth base
  • 2 cups Milk Enhances creaminess
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Medium or sharp varieties
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Optional

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Medium saucepan

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, and barbecue sauce. Mix until combined.
  3. Transfer the meat mixture into the greased baking dish and press it evenly into the bottom. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until browned and internal temperature is at least 160°F (71°C).
  4. While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, around 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  5. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour. Add 2 cups of milk slowly while stirring until thickened.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Mix until the cheese melts.
  7. In a large bowl, gently fold the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce until well-coated.
  8. Spread the mac and cheese mixture over the cooked meatloaf. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Cover the casserole with foil during part of the baking time to retain moisture. Experiment with different cheeses to vary flavor.

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