Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines two classic comfort foods—meatloaf and macaroni and cheese—into a single, hearty dish that’s perfect for a satisfying family meal. This casserole layers a flavorful meatloaf mixture with creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese, topped with additional cheese for extra gooeyness. It’s a fun twist on traditional meatloaf and mac and cheese, bringing together the best of both worlds in one delicious, oven-baked dish.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
- 1/2 pound (225 g) ground pork (or use more ground beef)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Meatloaf:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, ketchup, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overmix.
- Press the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the Meatloaf:
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. It will be partially cooked at this stage.
- Cook the Pasta:
- While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Mac and Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, until it forms a roux and bubbles.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Combine and Assemble:
- Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf in the baking dish.
- Add Topping and Bake:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the mac and cheese layer.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the meatloaf is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C).
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole warm, straight from the oven. It’s a hearty and comforting dish that combines the best elements of meatloaf and mac and cheese into one satisfying meal.
This casserole is a great way to mix up traditional recipes and provide a filling, flavorful dish for any occasion. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness with your family and friends!
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