Why Make This Recipe

Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect dish for anyone who loves comfort food. It combines two favorites: hearty meatloaf and creamy macaroni and cheese. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it great for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The flavors of the seasoned meatloaf pair wonderfully with the cheesy macaroni, providing a meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, which means less cleanup!

How to Make Macaroni 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, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well and press this mixture into a greased baking dish.
Bake the meatloaf for 20 minutes.
While the meatloaf bakes, cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
For the cheese sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for one minute.
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk until the mixture thickens. Season it with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard. Stir in the shredded cheese until it is melted and smooth.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then pour this mixture over the baked meatloaf layer. Top it with the remaining cheese.
Bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden.

How to Serve Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Once the casserole is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it directly from the baking dish or scoop portions onto plates. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How to Store Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Use a mixture of ground meats, like beef and pork, for added flavor.
Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or vegetables to the meatloaf for extra taste.
For a crispy topping, sprinkle some extra breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with melted butter on top before the final bake.

Variation

You can easily switch up the cheese by using a blend of different cheeses like mozzarella and gouda for a unique flavor. Additionally, try adding some cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables to the cheese sauce for a twist.

FAQs

Can I use leftover meatloaf for this recipe?
Yes! You can use any leftover meatloaf you have. Just place it in the baking dish and top it with the cheese sauce and macaroni mixture.

How long can I freeze this casserole?
You can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free macaroni to make this dish gluten-free. Just make sure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.