Here’s a hearty, professional, no-emoji recipe for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole — a comforting dish that layers creamy macaroni and cheese over savory, tender meatloaf for a family-style dinner favorite.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Servings
6–8 servings
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Layer
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1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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1 large egg
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½ cup milk
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping, optional)
For the Mac and Cheese Layer
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8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
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½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
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¼ teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Topping
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½ cup breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tablespoon melted butter
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¼ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella (for extra crust)
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
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Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
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Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Layer
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In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup.
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Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).
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Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
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Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top, if desired.
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Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the meatloaf is mostly cooked through.
3. Prepare the Mac and Cheese
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While the meatloaf bakes, cook the macaroni according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
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Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until smooth and thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
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Add 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until melted and creamy.
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Add cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
4. Assemble the Casserole
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Remove the meatloaf from the oven.
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Spoon the macaroni and cheese evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer.
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Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese.
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If desired, top with the buttered breadcrumb mixture for a crispy crust.
5. Bake
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Return the dish to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden.
6. Serve
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Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
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Serve warm with a side of vegetables or a simple salad.
Tips
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For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions to the mac and cheese.
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Ground turkey or a beef-pork blend also works well.
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Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
Would you like me to include a BBQ-style version of this casserole (with a smoky sauce layer instead of ketchup)?
