Description
A delicious combination of homemade mac and cheese layered with savory meatloaf, creating the ultimate comfort food casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (90/10 recommended for flavor balance)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko provides the best texture)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk (substitute with 2% for lighter option)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 12 ounces)
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Step 2: Create the Meatloaf Mixture
Step 3: Form the Meatloaf Base
Step 4: Pre-Bake the Meatloaf Layer
Step 5: Prepare the Pasta
Step 6: Create the Cheese Sauce
Step 7: Add the Cheese
Step 8: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Step 9: Layer and Top the Casserole
Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Notes
- You can prepare components up to a day ahead and store separately in the refrigerator.
- Add 10-15 minutes to baking time if assembling from cold ingredients.
- The casserole is done when top is golden brown, edges are bubbling, and meatloaf reaches 160°F.
- For the creamiest mac and cheese, use sharp cheddar for flavor combined with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or fontina for meltability.
- To make gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta, breadcrumbs, and check Worcestershire sauce.
- To prevent grainy cheese sauce, remove white sauce from heat before adding cheese.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers, quick oats, or cooked quinoa.
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mac and cheese meatloaf casserole, comfort food, casserole recipe, main dish
