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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Meatloaf Mac and Cheese Casserole

This hearty Meatloaf Mac and Cheese Casserole combines two comfort food classics in one dish — a savory, tender meatloaf base topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni for the ultimate family dinner.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (or beef + pork blend)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.25 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 tsp mustard powder
  • salt & pepper, to taste
  • 0.5 cup shredded cheese (optional topping)
  • 0.25 cup crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs (optional topping)

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Mixing spoon
  • Colander
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a bowl, combine ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and press evenly into the baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 6–7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Fold in cooked macaroni.
  4. Spread mac and cheese over the meatloaf base. Top with extra cheese or crispy onions if desired. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, try using a mix of ground beef and pork. Add a pinch of cayenne to the cheese sauce for a little heat. Leftovers reheat beautifully — just cover and warm in the oven or microwave.