Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Instructions

Prepare the Meatloaf Layer:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix!
3. Form the Meatloaf Base: Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.

Prepare the Mac and Cheese Layer:

1. Cook the Macaroni: While the meatloaf bakes, cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add Cheese: Remove from heat. Stir in 2 cups cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Add cooked macaroni and stir to combine.

Assemble & Bake:

1. Layer the Mac and Cheese: Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove from oven. Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the meatloaf.
2. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top.
3. Bake: Return to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Serve: Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Cook Notes & Tips

• Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs.
• Experiment with different cheeses (mozzarella, Monterey Jack, etc.).
• Let the casserole rest to help it hold its shape when sliced.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the meatloaf and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
• Veggie Boost: Add 1 cup chopped bell peppers or spinach to the meatloaf.
• Bacon Mac: Sprinkle cooked bacon bits over the mac and cheese before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use ground turkey? A: Yes! The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Q: Can I make it ahead? A: Yes! Prepare and assemble, then refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat as needed.

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food experience—all in one pan! Give it a try!