Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines the best of two comfort foods: cheesy macaroni and classic meatloaf. Juicy, flavorful ground beef is layered with creamy cheese sauce and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk (for meatloaf)
- 2 tbsp butter (for cheese sauce)
- 2 cups milk (for cheese sauce)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dry mustard
- 2 tbsp flour
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, ¼ cup milk, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, and paprika. Mix until combined.
- Press meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually whisk in 2 cups milk. Cook until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese until melted to make the cheese sauce.
- Layer cooked macaroni over meatloaf, then pour cheese sauce evenly on top. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and cheese is golden. Let cool 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked Casserole
- Cuisine: American