Indulging in a dish that combines the rich, creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the hearty satisfaction of meatloaf is an experience that can only be described as divine. The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole offers layers of velvety cheese and savory meat, all melded together to create a comfort food fantasy that dances on your taste buds. Picture this: melting cheese oozing from every corner and the irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame. For more inspiration, check out this ground beef and potatoes casserole recipe.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that embodies nostalgia and warmth, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. I remember the first time I made this casserole; my friends were skeptical but ended up asking for seconds—and thirds! It’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is simple to prepare, making it perfect for any home cook
- The flavor profile is rich and comforting, satisfying every craving
- Its visual appeal will make you the star of any gathering, filled with melted cheese and golden-brown goodness
- Versatility shines here; serve it as a main dish or as leftovers for lunch the next day
I still chuckle thinking about how my kids initially turned their noses up at the idea of meatloaf until they tasted this version.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use 80/20 beef for the best balance between flavor and moisture.
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Macaroni Pasta: Elbow macaroni works best for capturing the cheesy goodness. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom chicken alfredo recipe.
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Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to elevate flavor; it melts beautifully.
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Eggs: These bind everything together while adding richness.
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Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; feel free to use low-fat if preferred.
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Breadcrumbs: Use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor and texture.
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Ketchup: A classic topping that adds sweetness and tang.
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Onion and Garlic Powder: Essential aromatics that enhance the overall taste profile.
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Salt and Pepper: Standard seasonings that are key to bringing out all flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking so your casserole turns out perfectly golden brown.
Cook the Pasta: Boil macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside; you want it slightly firm since it’ll bake further.
Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overdo it!
Add Macaroni and Cheese : Fold in cooked macaroni along with half of your shredded cheddar cheese into the meat mixture until evenly distributed.
Transfer to Baking Dish : Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Pour your mac and cheese-meatloaf mixture into it, spreading evenly.
Topping It Off : Sprinkle remaining cheddar on top followed by a generous drizzle of ketchup. This adds an appealing glaze once baked—trust me on this!
Bake Away!: Place in preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes or until cooked through. The top should be bubbly and slightly browned—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Remember to let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing; this helps everything set up nicely without falling apart on your plate.
Now grab yourself some forks because you’re about to dive into layers of cheesy meat goodness! Enjoy each flavorful bite while reminiscing about family dinners filled with laughter—this casserole brings everyone together!
You Must Know
- This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is not just comfort food; it’s a time-saver for busy weeknights
- The creamy cheese melds beautifully with the meat, creating a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen
- It’s a dish that pleases everyone, from kids to adults!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the meatloaf mixture while preheating the oven. Cook the macaroni separately, then layer everything in a casserole dish for even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a flavorful crust, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter before topping the casserole
- Letting it rest after baking helps set the layers perfectly
- For added creaminess, stir in some sour cream or cream cheese into the mac and cheese mix
Cooking this dish reminds me of my childhood when my mom would whip up her famous mac and cheese on rainy days—it always made everything feel better.
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this casserole?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well; just adjust cooking times as needed.
What can I serve with Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?
A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Substituting lean meats and adding vegetables increases nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a delightful fusion of creamy macaroni and savory meatloaf, creating an unforgettable comfort dish. With layers of melted cheddar and a tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen, this casserole is perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights. It’s easy to prepare, pleasing to the eye, and satisfying for all ages—making it a go-to recipe you’ll want to share with friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Fold in the cooked macaroni and half of the shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray and pour in the meat-macaroni mixture. Spread evenly.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese and drizzle with ketchup.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (180g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
