Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
1 ½ lbs ground beef (80% lean)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Mac and Cheese:
2 cups elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
Make the Meatloaf:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix everything together until just combined (do not overmix).
Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish to form a meatloaf layer.
Bake the Meatloaf:
Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until it starts to brown and is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
Prepare the Mac and Cheese:
While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for about 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the noodles evenly.
Assemble the Casserole:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the mac and cheese evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer.
Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the mac and cheese to create a crispy topping.
Bake the Casserole:
Return the assembled casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into squares for an easy, hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
This casserole also pairs well with garlic bread or dinner rolls.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 520 kcal per serving | Servings: 6