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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: Comfort Food Love in a Dish

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines two beloved dishes into a delightful meal that pleases even picky eaters.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Casseroles
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf Base
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Panko for extra crunch or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • 1 medium Onion White or yellow onions for best taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Ketchup Can swap with barbecue sauce.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce is a replacement in a pinch.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Any blend of Italian herbs can be used.
For the Mac and Cheese Layer
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Gluten-free pasta is an option.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Substitute with olive oil for dairy-free.
  • 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour A gluten-free flour blend can be used.
  • 2 cups Milk Almond milk works for non-dairy.
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Gouda or mozzarella can be mixed in.
  • 1 tbsp Mustard Powder Optional for a subtle tang.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
  3. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing it evenly to cover the bottom.
  4. Bake the meatloaf base in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  5. While the meatloaf base is baking, cook elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  6. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in milk while whisking until the mixture thickens.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Optional: add mustard powder and salt.
  8. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until every noodle is coated.
  9. Spread the cheesy macaroni mixture evenly over the baked meatloaf layer.
  10. Return the assembled casserole to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  12. Carefully slice into squares and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized for dietary needs.

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