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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: Comfort Food Bliss

Experience the heartwarming Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, a savory blend of meatloaf and creamy macaroni that delights the whole family.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Can substitute with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • 1 medium Onion Chopped; use shallots for a sweeter taste.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Can substitute with crushed crackers, oats, or panko.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder.
  • 1/4 cup Milk Adjust for desired consistency.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Casserole
  • 8 oz Macaroni Opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • 2 cups Milk Adjust for desired sauce thickness.
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Shredded; swap for Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
  • 4 tbsp Butter For richness in cheese sauce.
  • 1/4 cup Flour For thickening cheese sauce.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Adds flavor complexity.
  • 1 tsp Dry Mustard Adds flavor complexity.
For Topping
  • 1 cup Additional Cheddar Cheese For a bubbly, delicious crust.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Medium saucepan
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, and 1/4 cup of milk. Season with salt and pepper. Mix gently and press into the baking dish.
  3. Bake the meatloaf for 20 minutes until browned and firm to the touch.
  4. Cook macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  5. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour, then gradually add 2 cups of milk, whisking until thickened. Stir in paprika, dry mustard, and 1.5 cups of cheddar cheese until smooth.
  6. Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined. Spoon over the baked meatloaf.
  7. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the top and bake for an additional 25 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
  8. Remove from oven, let sit for a few minutes, slice, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For a crispy top, broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Mix meatloaf ingredients gently to avoid density. Add extra milk for creaminess.

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