Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: A Comforting Twist on Classic Dishes

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a delightful twist on two classic comfort foods that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. Imagine the rich, creamy texture of mac and cheese combined with the hearty, savory goodness of meatloaf, all baked together in one convenient dish. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also offers a unique blend of flavors that will have your family asking for seconds.

Historically, both mac and cheese and meatloaf have been staples in American households, often associated with family gatherings and cozy evenings. The combination of these two beloved dishes into a casserole is a modern take that reflects our love for convenience without sacrificing taste. People adore this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole for its comforting flavors, satisfying texture, and the ease of preparation. It’s a one-pan wonder that makes weeknight dinners a breeze, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta

Before diving into the meatloaf part, let’s get our macaroni ready. This is a crucial step because we want the pasta to be perfectly cooked and not mushy.

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. Once boiling, add 1 cup of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.
3. Drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside. You can rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process, but I usually skip this step to keep the starch that helps bind everything together.

Preparing the Meat Mixture

Now, let’s move on to the meat mixture. This is where the magic happens, and the flavors start to come together.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1 small finely chopped onion, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to ensure everything is mixed well.
2. Add in the cooked macaroni, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully during baking, creating that gooey texture we all love.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. This mixture will help bind everything together and add moisture.
4. Pour the milk mixture into the meat and macaroni bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme. Mix everything together until well combined. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there!

Assembling the Casserole

Now that we have our meat mixture ready, it’s time to assemble the casserole.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that our casserole cooks evenly.
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Transfer the meat and macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top if needed.
4. If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. This will give it a nice texture contrast once baked.

Baking the Casserole

Now comes the best part—baking! This is where all the flavors meld together and the cheese gets all melty and delicious.

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
2. For an extra cheesy finish, you can add a little more shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. Just sprinkle it on and let it melt into a gooey layer.

Serving the Casserole

Once your casserole is out of the oven, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey through the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole recipe, I can confidently say that this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The combination of savory meatloaf and creamy mac and cheese creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both satisfying and indulgent. It’s the perfect dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy night in when you want something hearty and delicious. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this casserole with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. You can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite ingredients—think crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of your favorite cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so versatile! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole a try. I promise it will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this comforting dish together! Happy cooking! Print