Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Welcome to our kitchen, where we transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary culinary creations. Today, we’re thrilled to share with you our indulgent Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole recipe. Combining the classic comfort of macaroni and cheese with the savory goodness of meatloaf, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole brings together the best of both worlds: the hearty flavors of meatloaf and the creamy, cheesy delight of mac and cheese. It’s perfect for those cozy nights at home or when you want to impress guests with a comforting, satisfying meal. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Small bowl

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup of diced onion
• 1/4 cup of diced bell pepper
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Macaroni and Cheese:

• 2 cups of elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of milk
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping:

• 1 cup of crushed butter crackers
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onion, diced bell pepper, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until cooked through.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and creamy. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Once the meatloaf is cooked, remove it from the oven and spread the cooked macaroni evenly over the top. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni, ensuring that it’s evenly coated.

Step 5: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the crushed butter crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle the buttered cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice the meatloaf casserole into squares and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

• Mix the meatloaf ingredients gently to keep the meat tender.
• Be sure to cook the flour long enough to eliminate the raw taste before adding milk.
• For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last couple of minutes of baking.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda for a unique flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 25g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store the cooled casserole in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until hot throughout.

What can I serve with this casserole?
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables pair perfectly with this hearty dish.

Conclusion

With its irresistible combination of tender meatloaf, creamy macaroni and cheese, and buttery cracker topping, our Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comfort food masterpiece. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try tonight and indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience! We’d love to hear about your experience, so feel free to leave a comment or share a photo of your creation.