Print

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Easy Family Dinner Recipe

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole - featured image
Print Recipe

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines a savory meatloaf base with a creamy, cheesy macaroni layer, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy to make and perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for rich flavor)
  • 1/2 cup finely diced onion (yellow or sweet)
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp milk (whole or 2%, or dairy-free)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp ketchup (optional, for topping)
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth for creaminess)
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for color)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 2 tbsp milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Press evenly into the bottom of the baking dish.
  3. If desired, spread 2 tbsp ketchup over the meatloaf layer.
  4. Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente (about 6-7 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  5. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly and slightly golden.
  6. Slowly pour in 1/2 cup milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once thickened (2-3 minutes), add cheddar cheese, blended cottage cheese, smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  7. In a large bowl, toss the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Spread gently over the meatloaf layer in the baking dish.
  8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and panko breadcrumbs over the top. Finish with chopped parsley if desired.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly and the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temp should reach 160°F/71°C). If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil after 20 minutes.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Don’t overmix the meatloaf for a tender texture. Use blended cottage cheese for extra creamy sauce. Prep the meatloaf and cheese sauce a day ahead for deeper flavor. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly. Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese meatloaf casserole, family dinner, comfort food, easy casserole, baked pasta, ground beef, cheesy casserole, kid-friendly, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/mac-and-cheese-meatloaf-casserole-easy-family-dinner-recipe-2/