Experience the ultimate comfort food fusion with Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. This delightful dish combines two beloved classics into one hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its layers of creamy mac and cheese topped with a flavorful meatloaf crust.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds of ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mac and Cheese:
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Once the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely diced onion, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread the prepared mac and cheese evenly in the bottom of the baking dish, pressing it down slightly. Then, spread the meatloaf mixture over the top of the mac and cheese layer, smoothing it out to create an even layer.
4. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 160°F) and slightly browned on top.
5. Serve:
Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve. Enjoy this dish on its own or with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Other Details:
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Calorie Count per serving: 650 kcal | Serving Size: 6 servings
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips
- Accompaniments: This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. The richness of the casserole is nicely balanced by a fresh, crisp side.
- Garnishing: For an added touch, sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top before serving. This adds a pop of color and a subtle freshness to the dish.
- Portioning: Serve in generous squares to ensure each portion has both mac and cheese and meatloaf layers. For a more elegant presentation, consider using a spatula to serve each piece neatly.
- Temperature: This casserole is best served warm, right out of the oven. If you’re serving it later, be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before refrigerating to avoid condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Once it has cooled completely, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can dry out the meatloaf.
Variations:
1. BBQ Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Additions: Mix 1/2 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce into the meatloaf mixture for a smoky, sweet flavor. You can also drizzle some extra barbecue sauce over the top before baking.
- Cheese Option: Add a layer of shredded smoked gouda or sharp cheddar cheese on top of the mac and cheese before adding the meatloaf layer.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with coleslaw and baked beans for a classic BBQ meal.
2. Italian Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Additions: Incorporate 1/2 cup of marinara sauce into the meatloaf mixture and add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning for an Italian twist.
- Cheese Option: Use mozzarella or provolone cheese in the mac and cheese layer for a gooey, melty experience.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with garlic bread and a side of Caesar salad to complete the meal.
3. Spicy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Additions: For a kick of heat, mix 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños into the meatloaf mixture. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top.
- Cheese Option: Pepper jack cheese in the mac and cheese layer will add an extra spicy punch.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of cool, creamy ranch dressing and a fresh cucumber salad to balance the heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef. Keep in mind that turkey and chicken have a milder flavor, so you might want to increase the seasonings to maintain a flavorful meatloaf.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Can I use store-bought mac and cheese?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought mac and cheese. Just make sure it’s not too runny, as you want the mac and cheese layer to hold its shape under the meatloaf.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Be sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect dish for those who love comfort food with a twist. Whether you’re sticking to the classic version or trying one of the exciting variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy this delightful combination of two comfort food staples, and don’t forget to follow the serving and storage tips to make the most of your meal.