Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole mixes two comfort foods into one easy dish. It has meatloaf inside cheesy macaroni. You can make it for a weeknight dinner or for guests.
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
This dish is simple and filling. It uses the same meatloaf flavor people love and adds creamy macaroni and cheese. It feeds a family and saves well for leftovers. You get protein and pasta in one pan.
How to make Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Follow the steps below. Work in two bowls: one for the meatloaf mix and one for the macaroni and cheese mix. Layer them in a greased casserole dish and bake until ready.
Ingredients :
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cups cooked macaroni
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup milk
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup additional cheese for topping (optional)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into a loaf.
- In a separate bowl, mix cooked macaroni, milk, and shredded cheese.
- Spread half of the macaroni mixture in the bottom of a greased casserole dish.
- Place the meatloaf on top of the macaroni, then layer the remaining macaroni mixture over the meatloaf.
- If desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
A comforting dish that combines meatloaf and cheesy macaroni, perfect for a family dinner or guests.
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup additional cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into a loaf.
- In a separate bowl, mix cooked macaroni, milk, and shredded cheese.
- Spread half of the macaroni mixture in the bottom of a greased casserole dish.
- Place the meatloaf on top of the macaroni, then layer the remaining macaroni mixture over the meatloaf.
- If desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Use day-old cooked macaroni to ensure it holds up during baking. Don’t overmix the meat to keep it juicy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
How to serve Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. Add a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. A spoonful of ketchup or a little hot sauce works well for those who like extra flavor.
How to store Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Cool the casserole to room temperature. Cover it with foil or put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to make Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Use day-old cooked macaroni so it holds up in the bake.
- Don’t overmix the meat—mix just enough to combine ingredients.
- If the top browns too fast, cover loosely with foil partway through baking.
Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Add cooked bacon or diced bell pepper to the macaroni mix for more flavor.
- Stir in a little mustard or hot sauce to the macaroni for a spicy kick.
- Swap cheddar for a blend of cheeses for a creamier texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole and cover it. Keep it in the fridge and bake within 24 hours.
Q: How do I know the meatloaf is cooked?
A: The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef. The juices should run clear.
Q: Can I use uncooked macaroni?
A: It is best to use cooked macaroni. Uncooked pasta may not cook evenly in the casserole.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the dish?
A: Yes. Small, cooked vegetables like peas or carrots mix well with the macaroni.
Conclusion
This Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is easy and comforting. It combines classic meatloaf with cheesy macaroni for a hearty meal. Try the simple steps and enjoy warm, cheesy slices with a side salad.
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