Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Combine two classic comfort foods into one irresistible dish with this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. Savory meatloaf topped with creamy mac and cheese makes for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Topping:

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the Meatloaf:
   • Transfer the meatloaf mixture into a greased baking dish and shape into a loaf.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
3. Cook the Macaroni:
   • While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux.
   • Gradually whisk in milk and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
   • Stir in mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Remove from heat and add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Combine Mac and Cheese:
   • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 30 minutes.
   • Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
   • Sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
7. Bake the Casserole:
   • Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the hearty and cheesy blend of mac and cheese with savory meatloaf!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calorie Count: 600 kcal per serving

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or topping the casserole with cooked bacon bits before baking.

Conclusion

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole offers a delightful mash-up of creamy mac and cheese and savory meatloaf. Perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal!

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