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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

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This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines two classic comfort foods into one hearty, crowd-pleasing dish. With a savory meatloaf base and ultra-creamy mac and cheese topping, it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%; non-dairy works too)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp ketchup (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni (or any short pasta shape)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or non-dairy)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
  4. Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente (about 7–8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  5. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  6. Gradually whisk in milk. Cook, whisking often, until thickened (about 4–5 minutes).
  7. Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and melted.
  8. Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  9. Spoon the mac and cheese mixture over the meatloaf layer, spreading evenly without pressing down.
  10. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over the casserole. Drizzle extra ketchup on top if desired.
  11. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until cheese is bubbling and top is golden brown. If topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
  12. Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. For a lighter version, use ground turkey and reduced-fat cheese. Shred your own cheese for best melting. Let casserole rest before slicing for clean portions. Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. Leftovers keep well and taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese meatloaf casserole, comfort food, family dinner, casserole recipe, easy weeknight meal, cheesy casserole, ground beef, pasta bake

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/mac-and-cheese-meatloaf-casserole-easy-comfort-food-for-cozy-family-dinners/