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Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

A delicious mashup of two beloved comfort foods, this casserole combines hearty meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 lb ground beef You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg Can be substituted with a flaxseed mixture for a vegan version.
  • 1/4 cup milk Milk for the meatloaf.
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups milk Milk for the cheese sauce.
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dry mustard
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to experiment with different cheeses.
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups uncooked macaroni You can use different types of pasta if desired.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
  3. Transfer the meat mixture to a greased baking dish and press evenly to form a solid meatloaf layer.
  4. Bake the meatloaf for about 20 minutes.
  5. Cook the macaroni according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
  6. In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat and stir in 2 tbsp of flour, cooking for about one minute.
  7. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk and stir until the sauce thickens.
  8. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard.
  9. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
  10. Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well coated.
  11. After the meatloaf has baked for 20 minutes, pour the macaroni and cheese mixture over the meatloaf and spread evenly.
  12. Sprinkle any remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  13. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  14. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For added nutrition, consider sneaking in finely chopped vegetables. This dish can also be made spicier with jalapeños or hot sauce.