Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Here’s a recipe for a delicious Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. This dish combines two comfort food favorites into one hearty meal.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
   • Press the meat mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
   • Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
   • Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
   • Add the salt, black pepper, and paprika.
   • Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
   • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the meatloaf layer in the baking dish.
5. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
6. Bake the Casserole:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/70°C).
   • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!