Description
Comfort classics merge in this mac and cheese meatloaf casserole, blending hearty ground beef with creamy pasta perfection. Cheesy layers and savory meat create a satisfying dinner that promises to become a family favorite when you need delicious comfort on a plate.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
Binding and Seasoning:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
Topping and Garnish:
- 1 cup additional shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray.
- Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, thoroughly blending the ingredients until well incorporated.
- Fold the cooked macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese into the meat mixture, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Transfer the combined meat and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing down gently to create an even layer.
- Pour milk evenly over the surface of the meat mixture to enhance moisture and richness.
- Sprinkle the additional shredded cheese across the top of the casserole, creating a complete coverage.
- Dust the cheese layer with the remaining breadcrumbs for a crispy, golden topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the top turns a deep golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving, adding a bright, fresh element to the dish.
Notes
- Ensure meat mixture is well-mixed to prevent dry, dense texture and guarantee even seasoning throughout the loaf.
- Choose lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to reduce excess grease while maintaining moisture and flavor intensity.
- Experiment with cheese varieties like monterey jack or gruyère for unique flavor profiles and creamy consistency.
- Allow casserole to rest exactly 10 minutes post-baking to help structural integrity and prevent crumbling when serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg