Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
450kcal
Ingredients
Meatloaf Base
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk (for meatloaf)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cups milk (for cheese sauce)
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dry mustard
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then press into a greased baking dish.
- Bake the meatloaf for 20 minutes to form a solid base.
- While the meatloaf bakes, cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Cheese Sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about one minute.
- Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of milk until the mixture thickens. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard, stirring to combine.
- Add the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Assembly
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then pour the mixture over the baked meatloaf layer.
- Top with any remaining cheese.
Baking
- Bake the casserole for an additional 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Nutrition
Serving1gCalories450kcalCarbohydrates40gProtein30gFat20gSaturated Fat10gSodium800mgFiber2gSugar2g
Notes
For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version. Add cooked vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for nutrition and consider adding jalapeños for heat. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.