Who doesn’t love a comforting dish that combines two beloved favorites? Mac and Cheese Meatloaf brings together the rich and cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the hearty satisfaction of classic meatloaf. This dish is perfect for family dinners or even casual gatherings with friends. It’s a delightful, filling meal that can make your taste buds dance with joy. Plus, it’s easy to make and potently nostalgic, bringing back memories of cozy family meals. Let’s dive into why you should add this hearty dish to your repertoire!
Why Make This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf is not just a meal but a comforting hug on a plate. Infusing the classic meatloaf with creamy, cheesy macaroni makes it a delicious and unique experience. The soft and savory beef melds perfectly with the cheesy pasta, delivering a lavish texture that warms you from the inside out. It’s a fantastic way to get picky eaters excited about meat and pasta! Not only is this dish filling, but it’s also a fun twist that will impress guests and family alike. Plus, you can tailor it to your taste preferences, making it endlessly adaptable.
How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
Making Mac and Cheese Meatloaf is straightforward and delightful. It involves basic cooking techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. You’ll create the meatloaf base and bake it partially before layering it with a creamy mac and cheese topping. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish truly exceptional. Gather your ingredients and let’s get started on this mouthwatering adventure!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Press this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or loaf pan.
- Bake the meatloaf base for approximately 25–30 minutes, until it’s mostly cooked through.
- While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the thickened milk until melted and smooth. If desired, season with extra salt and paprika.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix gently until all the pasta is well coated.
- Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes. For an extra crispy top, broil for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 550
- Total Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g
How to Serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
Serve your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. This dish can be the centerpiece of a casual weeknight dinner or the star of a cozy family gathering. For a laid-back approach, consider serving it with crusty garlic bread!
How to Store Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
Leftovers? No problem! Store your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container; it will keep for about 2-3 months. To reheat, simply bake in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: When mixing the meatloaf ingredients, avoid overmixing, as it can lead to a dense final product.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Make sure your meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked through.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to swap out the cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for different flavor profiles.
Delicious Variations
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers into the meat mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the mac and cheese for a zesty touch.
- BBQ Twist: Mix in a couple of tablespoons of your favorite BBQ sauce into the meat mixture for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that these meats can be drier than beef, so you may want to add a bit more seasoning or moisture.
2. How can I make it gluten-free?
You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your Worcestershire sauce and other condiments are gluten-free.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf and mac and cheese components ahead of time. Assemble it and refrigerate before baking it, ensuring it’s ready to pop in the oven when you need it.
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful blend of two of America’s most cherished comfort foods. Its cheesy richness and hearty profile make it a dish your family will love. With easy preparation and the option to customize, there’s really no reason not to try it! Gather your ingredients today and invite your loved ones to enjoy this irresistible casserole that combines the best of both worlds. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience – your kitchen adventures could inspire others!
Print
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting dish that blends cheesy macaroni and classic meatloaf for a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Press this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or loaf pan.
- Bake the meatloaf base for approximately 25–30 minutes, until it’s mostly cooked through.
- While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the thickened milk until melted and smooth. If desired, season with extra salt and paprika.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix gently until all the pasta is well coated.
- Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes. For an extra crispy top, broil for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider mixing in finely chopped vegetables or swapping the cheese types. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Mac and cheese, meatloaf, comfort food, family dinner, casserole
