For the Mac and Cheese Topping:
• 2 cups elbow macaroni• 2 tablespoons butter• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour• 2 cups milk (warm)• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese• ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)• Salt and pepper to taste• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or extra cheddar for topping
Step-by-Step Method
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Layer
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).• In a large bowl, combine ground meat, diced onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.• Mix until just combined — avoid over-mixing, which can make the meatloaf dense.• Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish. Make sure it’s packed but not too tightly.• Bake for 25 minutes, then remove from oven and drain any excess fat.
2. Make the Creamy Mac and Cheese
• While the meatloaf is baking, boil the macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.• In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.• Slowly whisk in the warm milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened (about 3–5 minutes).• Stir in shredded cheddar and mustard powder. Mix until the cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.• Fold in the cooked macaroni until well coated with cheese sauce.
3. Assemble the Casserole
• Once the meatloaf base has partially baked, remove it from the oven.• Spoon the mac and cheese over the meat layer, spreading it evenly.• Sprinkle the top with extra cheese (mozzarella or more cheddar for a golden finish).
4. Final Bake
• Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 15–20 more minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.• For a crispy cheese crust, broil for the last 2–3 minutes — but watch it closely to avoid burning.
5. Let It Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set up and makes serving easier.
Serving Suggestions
• Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.• Serve with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans to balance the richness.• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole isn’t just a meal — it’s an experience. It wraps you in nostalgic flavors, combining the cozy familiarity of meatloaf with the creamy delight of mac and cheese. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself, this casserole promises satisfaction with every bite.
