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Mac & Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup That’s Rich, Hearty, and Irresistibly Satisfying


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ small onion, finely diced
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 2 tbsp butter or coconut oil
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch)
• Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or diced bell peppers


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
  2. Make the meatloaf layer: In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, ¼ cup ketchup, Worcestershire, onion, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
  3. Press mixture into the bottom of the baking dish to form an even layer.
  4. Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top (like glaze).
  5. Make the mac & cheese layer: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened.
  6. Remove from heat. Stir in ¾ cup cheddar until melted. Fold in cooked macaroni (and peas or peppers if using).
  7. Spoon mac and cheese over the meatloaf layer. Sprinkle remaining ¼ cup cheese on top.
  8. Bake 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
  9. Let cool 5 minutes before serving. Great with a side salad or roasted veggies!

Kid-approved, hearty, and perfect for meal prep—reheats beautifully!

PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 15 mins , Cook Time : 30 mins , Total Time : 45 mins , Servings : 6 , Calories : 380 , Net Carbs: 24g , Fats: 20g , Protein: 26g