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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Ultimate Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe for Comfort

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe combines two beloved classics into a hearty dish that pleases everyone.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 portions
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf Layer
  • 1 lb Ground Beef can substitute with ground turkey
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs gluten-free option available
  • 1/2 cup Milk use non-dairy milk if preferred
  • 1 large Egg or use a flax egg for vegan option
  • 1/4 cup Ketchup or substitute with barbecue sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce vegan versions available
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper
For the Mac and Cheese Layer
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni or gluten-free pasta
  • 4 tbsp Butter or olive oil for substitution
  • 4 tbsp Flour gluten-free flour can be used
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese or other melting cheeses
  • 1 tsp Paprika optional for flavor

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • medium saucepan
  • pot
  • Colander

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, add ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and press into the baking dish, then bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter, whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour to form a roux, then slowly add 2 cups of milk, stirring continuously until thickened. Add 2 cups of cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and optional paprika.
  5. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring all pasta is coated.
  6. Spread the macaroni mixture over the baked meatloaf layer. Optionally sprinkle additional cheese on top.
  7. Bake the assembled casserole for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown.
  8. Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 28gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

You can customize with various toppings and cheese for added flavor and texture. Store in an airtight container; it lasts up to 3 days in the fridge or freezes well for up to 2 months.

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