Let me share with you an absolute crowd-pleaser that combines two comfort food classics into one unforgettable dish: the Meatloaf Mac Casserole Recipe. This hearty casserole layers a flavorful meatloaf base with creamy, cheesy macaroni on top, making every bite a delicious harmony of textures and tastes. It’s a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around the dinner table, delivering satisfying flavors and cozy warmth in a single, simple dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Meatloaf Mac Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in crafting its rich flavor and comforting texture. From the savory meatloaf base to the luscious cheesy macaroni topping, every element contributes to making this dish a family favorite.
- 1 pound ground beef: The foundation of the meatloaf layer, providing hearty flavor and protein.
- ½ cup finely chopped onion: Adds a mild sweetness and aroma to the meat mixture.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf together while baking.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs: Helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender.
- ¼ cup milk: Moisturizes the meat mixture for a soft bite.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the savory, umami flavor of the meat layer.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses gentle aromatic notes without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle touch of warmth.
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni: The star of the macaroni topping, perfect for soaking up cheese sauce.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Offers sharp, melty richness in the cheese sauce.
- 2 cups milk: Creates the creamy base for the cheesy macaroni layer.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Starts the roux for a smooth, velvety cheese sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to just the right consistency.
- ½ cup ketchup (for topping): Adds a tangy glaze to finish the casserole beautifully.
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh, colorful touch that brightens the finished dish.
How to Make Meatloaf Mac Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Meatloaf Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onions, egg, breadcrumbs, ¼ cup milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix just until everything is incorporated to keep that tender texture. Press this savory meat mixture evenly into the bottom of your baking dish — this will be the flavorful foundation that everything else rests upon. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the meatloaf base to start setting nicely while you prepare the macaroni topping.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
While the meatloaf is baking, bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain well when done. This perfectly cooked pasta is what will soak up the creamy cheese sauce and create that indulgent, velvety layer on top of the meatloaf.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Sauce and Combine with Macaroni
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute to form a roux – this step is essential for a smooth, thickened sauce. Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of milk and continue cooking until the sauce thickens, usually 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy delight. Toss the cooked macaroni gently into this luscious cheese sauce, making sure every piece of pasta is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Assemble and Finish Baking
Take your partially baked meatloaf base out of the oven and carefully spread the cheesy macaroni mixture evenly over the top. Then, spread the ketchup over the macaroni layer — this adds a classic tangy finish and that lovely glaze people love. Pop your casserole back into the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the whole dish is bubbling and golden around the edges. Let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing — this resting time helps the layers set so every portion holds its shape beautifully.
How to Serve Meatloaf Mac Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of brightness that contrasts perfectly with the rich layers beneath. It’s that little finishing touch that makes this Meatloaf Mac Casserole Recipe feel extra special and inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty casserole with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables, or even some roasted root veggies for a balanced meal. A fresh garden salad or garlicky green beans bring a refreshing contrast and help lighten up the richness of the dish, making it a well-rounded dinner option.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming presentation, especially when entertaining guests. Alternatively, layer the components in a trifle dish for a party-style display. For a casual family meal, simply slicing and plating it with a sprinkle of parsley is just as inviting and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from the Meatloaf Mac Casserole Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for tasty second-day meals.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. To freeze, cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe dish or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It’s perfect for meal prepping and can be frozen safely for up to 2 months.
Reheating
For reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until bubbly and heated through, about 20 to 30 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning while reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or another meat instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or a mix of beef, pork, and veal work wonderfully and will give the Meatloaf Mac Casserole Recipe a delicious twist while keeping it moist and flavorful.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for lentils, cooked mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute to create a vegetarian version that still retains that comforting meatloaf-like texture.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole up to the final baking step and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
What cheese works best in the macaroni layer?
Cheddar cheese is classic for this recipe because it melts smoothly and has that perfect sharpness. You can mix in pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flair.
How can I make the Meatloaf Mac Casserole Recipe spicier?
Add hot sauce to the meat mixture or stir diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese into the macaroni layer. These little changes bring a welcome heat without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Meatloaf Mac Casserole Recipe is truly a delightful blend of comfort and creativity that’s sure to become a household favorite. Its layers of juicy meatloaf and creamy, cheesy macaroni combine effortlessly into one satisfying dish that’s perfect for sharing. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how cozy and delicious dinner can be with this timeless recipe!
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Meatloaf Mac Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Meatloaf Mac Casserole combines the classic comfort of homemade meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese, baked together to create a hearty, family-friendly main dish. Ground beef seasoned with onion and spices forms a flavorful base topped with rich cheddar mac and cheese, finished with a tangy ketchup glaze and optional parsley garnish for freshness.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Base
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Macaroni and Cheese Topping
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup ketchup (for topping)
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Make Meatloaf Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, ¼ cup milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the greased baking dish forming a meatloaf layer.
- Bake Meatloaf Layer: Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. This partially cooks the meatloaf while you prepare the macaroni topping.
- Cook Macaroni: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Macaroni with Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until all the pasta is evenly coated with cheesy sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Remove the partially baked meatloaf from the oven. Carefully spread the cheesy macaroni mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer. Then, spread ketchup evenly on top to add a tangy finish.
- Finish Baking: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Slice into portions and serve warm.
Notes
- For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a meatloaf mix including beef, pork, and veal.
- Add a spicy kick by mixing hot sauce or pepper jack cheese into the macaroni and cheese layer before assembly.
- Ensure the meat mixture isn’t overworked to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Use fresh parsley for garnishing to add a pop of color and freshness.
