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+ servings
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: Family Fun on a Plate

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting dish combining layers of creamy mac and cheese and savory meatloaf—perfect for family gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow or white onions work best.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Use crushed crackers for a gluten-free alternative.
  • 1 large Egg Can substitute with flaxseed meal and water for a vegan option.
  • 1/2 cup Milk Dairy-free milk or vegetable broth can lighten it up.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust according to preference.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Butter Can use olive oil for a lighter version.
  • 1/4 cup Flour All-purpose or gluten-free flour works great.
  • 2 cups Cheese (Shredded) Experiment with cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Paprika Optional for color and depth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dry Mustard Optional but recommended for flavor.

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Saucepan
  • whisk
  • pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your greased baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined and shape into a loaf in your baking dish.
  3. Bake the meatloaf for about 20 minutes until edges are browning.
  4. Cook macaroni in boiling salted water according to package directions, usually around 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  5. In a saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the flour for about 1 minute, then gradually add milk and whisk until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in cheese, paprika, and mustard until melted.
  6. Fold cooked macaroni into cheese sauce until evenly coated, then pour it over the meatloaf in the baking dish.
  7. Bake for an additional 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Optional ingredients, such as different cheeses or vegetables, can enhance flavor and nutrition.

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