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BEST Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Ultimate Comfort: BEST Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Discover the BEST Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, a heartwarming dish that combines two favorites into a creamy, flavorful delight.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Use lean-to-medium fat content (85/15 or 80/20) to avoid excessive grease.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Can substitute with panko for a lighter version.
  • 1 Egg Critical binder for the meatloaf.
  • 1/4 cup Milk Any fat percentage works.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chop for even distribution.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 cup Barbecue Sauce Substitute with ketchup mixed with brown sugar and vinegar if needed.
For the Mac and Cheese
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Other short pasta shapes can be used.
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 2 tbsp Flour
  • 2 cups Milk Whole or 2% is recommended.
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Medium or sharp cheddar recommended.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Omit if unavailable.

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • pot
  • medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, and barbecue sauce. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
  2. Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased baking dish, shape into a loaf and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until browned.
  3. While the meatloaf bakes, cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually stir in milk, cooking until thickened, about 4-5 minutes. Mix in cheese and paprika until creamy.
  5. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and mix well. Layer this over the meatloaf and return to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes.
  6. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Customize with turkey instead of beef or add veggies for added nutrition.

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