Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté the onion and garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
- Mix the meatloaf ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, sautéed onion and garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Mix until well combined.
- Form the meatloaf base: Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf
- Bake: Bake the meatloaf base in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until it is partially cooked and beginning to brown.
Step 3: Prepare the Mac and Cheese
- Cook the macaroni: While the meatloaf base is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Combine the macaroni and cheese sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the mac and cheese: Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf base.
- Prepare the topping: In a small mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese layer.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Cool slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve: Slice the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole into portions and serve warm. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Use lean ground beef: Choose lean ground beef to reduce the amount of fat in the dish.
- Cheese variety: Feel free to use a combination of cheeses for a richer flavor, such as cheddar and mozzarella or gouda.
- Customize the toppings: Add some crushed crackers or seasoned panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Make ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s been chilled.
Conclusion
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and delicious meal that combines two classic dishes into one delightful creation. This recipe ensures that you get the best of both worlds: flavorful meatloaf and creamy mac and cheese, all baked to perfection. Enjoy making and savoring this comforting dish with your loved ones!