why make this recipe
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a great way to combine two beloved comfort foods into one hearty dish. This recipe uses flavorful ground beef and the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese, making it a perfect meal for the family. It’s easy to prepare and cooks all in one dish, saving you time on cleanup. Plus, kids and adults alike will love this delicious twist on classic meatloaf.
how to make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into a loaf.
- In a baking dish, place the cooked macaroni and mix in half of the cheddar cheese.
- Place the meatloaf on top of the macaroni and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the meatloaf.
- Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
how to serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Serve this casserole by cutting it into slices and plating it with a side salad or steamed vegetables. It can be enjoyed hot straight from the oven or warmed up as leftovers for a satisfying meal any time.
how to store Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
To store any leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to seal it well.
tips to make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- For extra flavor, try adding some spices like Italian seasoning or paprika to the meat mixture.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a leaner option.
- If you want a crispy topping, sprinkle some extra breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking.
variation
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the meat mixture for added nutrition. You can also mix in different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique flavor twist.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, pork, or chicken instead of ground beef.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Check if the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C) using a meat thermometer.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator unbaked for up to a day before cooking it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty combination of ground beef and creamy macaroni and cheese, perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into a loaf.
- In a baking dish, place the cooked macaroni and mix in half of the cheddar cheese.
- Place the meatloaf on top of the macaroni and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the meatloaf.
- Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add Italian seasoning or paprika to the meat mixture. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the cheese before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
