Description
Hearty Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: A Comforting Fusion of Classics
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey or chicken)
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 1 cup bread crumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- to taste seasonings (such as garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper)
- 8 ounce cooked macaroni (undercooked slightly)
- 2 cup cheddar cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and pepper jack)
- 1 cup milk (plant-based milk works great too)
- 1 cup additional cheese
- 1 cup bread crumbs (panko gives the best result)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a baking dish for your casserole.
2. Cook the macaroni in salted water for about 6-7 minutes until slightly undercooked. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, egg, bread crumbs, and desired seasonings. Mix gently until just combined.
4. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk and add the cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
5. In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked macaroni, then spread the meatloaf mixture over it. Pour the cheese sauce over the meatloaf, covering it completely. Sprinkle additional cheese and bread crumbs on top if desired.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
7. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Don’t overwork the meatloaf mixture for a tender texture.
Keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of baking to prevent drying out.
Consider adding diced vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg