Description: A comforting and hearty casserole that combines the best of both worlds: creamy macaroni and cheese and savory meatloaf. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s an excellent way to elevate classic comfort food by bringing together familiar flavors in a new and exciting way. The combination of the cheesy macaroni and the savory meatloaf creates a balanced and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. This step is crucial to prevent the casserole from sticking and to ensure easy removal after baking. Using cooking spray or butter works well for greasing the dish.
Step 2: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. It’s important not to overcook the macaroni, as it will continue to cook in the oven and can become mushy. Drain the macaroni well and set it aside. Ensure there is no excess water, which can make the casserole soggy.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and beaten eggs. Mix all the ingredients until well combined, but be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough. Use your hands or a large spoon to gently incorporate the ingredients until just combined.
Step 4: In another bowl, stir the cooked macaroni with the milk and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until well mixed. Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the macaroni, creating a creamy and cheesy base for the casserole. The milk helps to keep the macaroni moist and adds to the overall creaminess of the dish.
Step 5: Layer half of the macaroni mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the meatloaf mixture evenly over the macaroni layer. Then, add the remaining macaroni mixture on top of the meatloaf. Ensure the meatloaf layer is evenly covered by the macaroni mixture to provide a balanced flavor profile in each bite.
Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This creates a delicious, melted cheese topping that adds both flavor and visual appeal. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed for uniform melting.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf; it should reach 160°F (71°C). If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
Step 8: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to cut and serve the casserole without it falling apart.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a family-friendly dish that combines the comforting flavors of macaroni and cheese with the heartiness of meatloaf. It’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. You’ll love the creamy, cheesy texture and the savory meatloaf, all in one dish. It’s also a great way to use up leftover macaroni and cheese, making it an economical and efficient meal option. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this satisfying and flavorful casserole.
COOKING Rating
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
- A fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole
- Steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans for added nutrients
- Garlic bread for soaking up the cheesy sauce
- Coleslaw for a crunchy and refreshing contrast
Tips:
- Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content of the casserole.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
- If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or rolled oats can be used as a substitute.
- Add vegetables like diced onions, bell peppers, or carrots to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
50 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Conclusion
The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a delightful and satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Its combination of cheesy goodness and savory meatloaf makes it a unique and memorable meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this casserole is a perfect choice. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delicious flavors that come together in this hearty meal.
Questions and Answers about This Recipe:
- Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even a combination of beef and pork. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, depending on the type of meat you use. For example, ground turkey tends to cook faster than ground beef.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative, or use a combination of cooked lentils and finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and onions to provide a similar texture and flavor. Ensure your breadcrumbs are also vegetarian-friendly.
- How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free elbow macaroni and gluten-free breadcrumbs. There are many excellent gluten-free alternatives available in most grocery stores. Additionally, double-check that your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten.
- Is it possible to prepare this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it is heated through. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Can I freeze this casserole for later?
- Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow the baked casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked casserole, but the texture of the macaroni may change slightly upon thawing.
