Description
Combining the homely comfort of meatloaf with the gooey richness of mac and cheese, the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Delight is a perfect dish to pamper your taste buds. It’s a unique fusion that not only promises to be a hearty main course but also brings a creative twist to family dinners. Whether it’s a regular weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish blends the savory flavor of meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese in one irresistible casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preparing the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Making the Meatloaf: In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients listed under the meatloaf section. Mix well until fully combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, forming the first layer of your casserole.
- Cooking Macaroni: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni as per package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Creating the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens (approx. 5-7 minutes). Take the pan off the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar until smooth.
- Combining Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Layering and Topping: Spread the mac and cheese mixture over the meatloaf layer in the baking dish. Sprinkle the additional half-cup of cheddar cheese and quarter-cup of breadcrumbs evenly as the topping.
- Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes