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
Scale
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.
