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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: Your New Comfort Food Delight

Experience a warm hug with Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, a perfect blend of savory meatloaf and creamy mac and cheese.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf Base
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Substitute with turkey or plant-based options for a lighter dish.
  • 0.5 cup Onion (diced) Shallots can be used for a subtler taste.
  • 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs Crushed crackers or oats can also work.
  • 1 large Egg A flax egg can be a great vegan alternative.
  • 0.25 cup Milk Almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
  • 1.5 tsp Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 0.75 tsp Pepper White pepper can be used for milder kick.
For the Mac and Cheese Layer
  • 2 cups Macaroni (uncooked) Gluten-free pasta is a fantastic substitute.
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded) Monterey Jack can be tried for different meltiness.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Margarine or a non-dairy spread can be used.
  • 2 tbsp Flour Cornstarch or gluten-free flour mix can be alternatives.
For Flavor Enhancements
  • 0.5 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika can intensify the taste.
  • 0.5 tsp Dry Mustard Dijon mustard can add delightful tang.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • baking dish
  • Saucepan
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while preparing the casserole.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and press into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  3. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until browned on the edges.
  4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add uncooked macaroni and cook until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  5. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, and gradually pour in milk, stirring until thickened. Add shredded cheese, paprika, and dry mustard until melted and creamy.
  6. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and pour over the meatloaf layer. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
  7. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow layers to settle.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Perfect for meal prep and easily customizable with different proteins or cheese varieties.

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