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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

A savory meatloaf base topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni for a comforting and layered dinner that's perfect for families and potlucks.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the meatloaf base
  • 1 lb ground beef You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup milk Milk for the meatloaf.
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
For the macaroni and cheese topping
  • 2 cups uncooked macaroni Cook al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Mix of sharp and mild cheddar is recommended.
  • 2 tbsp butter For making the cheese sauce.
  • 2 cups milk Milk for the cheese sauce.
  • 2 tbsp flour Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dry mustard

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well and press into a greased baking dish.
  3. Bake the meatloaf for 20 minutes.
  4. While it bakes, cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
Cheese Sauce
  1. For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Stir in flour and cook for one minute.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened; season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard.
  4. Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
Assembly
  1. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and pour over the meatloaf layer.
  2. Top with remaining cheese.
  3. Bake for an additional 25 minutes or until bubbly.

Notes

For a crispy finish, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking.