Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines two beloved comfort foods into one delicious dish. This recipe is perfect for families looking for a hearty meal that is easy to prepare. It brings together the flavors of a classic meatloaf and the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese, making it an appealing choice for both kids and adults. Plus, it is a great way to use up ingredients you might already have at home.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

How to Make Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 cup macaroni pasta
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
5. Stir the cooked macaroni and 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the beef mixture. Pour in the milk mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and spread ketchup evenly on top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes until cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting meal!

How to Serve Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Serve the casserole warm straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also add extra ketchup or hot sauce for those who like a bit more flavor.

How to Store Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure it’s tightly wrapped and stored in an airtight container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

1. For a thicker texture, add a little more cheese to the mixture before baking.
2. You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to ground beef.
3. Experiment with different cheese varieties, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to add different flavors.

Variation

If you want to add some vegetables, consider mixing in diced bell peppers or spinach. These can enhance the flavor and add more nutrients to the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just allow extra time for baking if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

2. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches at least 160°F (71°C).

3. Can I reheat leftovers?
Absolutely! Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Print