Combine two beloved comfort foods, mac and cheese and meatloaf, into one delicious and satisfying dish: Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. This hearty casserole features a juicy, flavorful meatloaf base topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni, making it the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the detailed steps to create this mouthwatering casserole.
Chapter 1: Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (85% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese