Cheesy Meatloaf Macaroni Bake

Cheesy Meatloaf Macaroni Bake Recipe

This comforting, family-friendly dish combines two classics—meatloaf and macaroni and cheese—into one cheesy, flavorful casserole. The meatloaf adds a hearty protein base while the creamy mac and cheese brings the ultimate cheesy goodness!

Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons ketchup (for topping)

For the Macaroni and Cheese:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for extra tang)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Meatloaf

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into a lightly greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or shape it into a loaf and place it on a lined baking sheet.
4. Top with ketchup: Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni and Cheese

1. Cook the pasta: While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Add the milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

1. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
2. Layer in a baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the cheesy macaroni in the bottom of the dish.
3. Add meatloaf slices: Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and place the slices over the macaroni.
4. Top with remaining macaroni: Spread the remaining cheesy macaroni over the meatloaf slices, covering them completely.
5. Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top for a golden, crispy finish.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
2. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Tips:

• Customizable: Feel free to add veggies to the macaroni and cheese for extra nutrition—broccoli, peas, or spinach would work well.
• Make ahead: You can make the meatloaf and macaroni ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, and assemble the bake just before you’re ready to cook.
• Meatloaf variation: If you prefer turkey or chicken, simply substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

This Cheesy Meatloaf Macaroni Bake is the perfect blend of comfort food flavors, and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!