Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup

Craving a hearty, comforting dish that combines two classics? This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a delicious blend of savory meatloaf, creamy macaroni, and gooey cheddar cheese, all topped with a tangy ketchup-milk sauce. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights, this crowd-pleaser is easy to make and ready in about an hour!

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup macaroni noodles, cooked and drained
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup ketchup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended (avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender).
2. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch (or similar) baking dish.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

1. Spread the cooked macaroni noodles evenly over the meatloaf layer.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the macaroni.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and ketchup until smooth.
2. Pour the sauce evenly over the cheese and macaroni layers.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C) and the top is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 6: Serve

1. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

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Serving Suggestions

• Sides: Pair with a green salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or extra cheese for a pop of flavor.
• Leftovers: Slice into portions for easy reheating in the microwave or oven.

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Tips for Success

• Macaroni Prep: Cook macaroni al dente (slightly firm) to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
• Meat Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or a beef-pork blend for different flavors.
• Cheese Variations: Mix in mozzarella or Colby Jack for a different cheesy twist.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep it moist.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food fusion, combining the hearty satisfaction of meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. It’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers. The tangy ketchup-milk sauce ties it all together for a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dish.

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Serves 6. Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 45 minutes. Total time: 1 hour.