Go Back

Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Meatloaf

This baked macaroni and cheese is layered with flavorful meatloaf for a comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baked Macaroni and Cheese, comfort food, Easy Recipes, Family Dinner, meatloaf
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 500kcal

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

  • 450 g ground beef
  • 75 g diced onion
  • 50 g breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 60 ml milk (for meatloaf)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper

For the Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 480 ml milk (for cheese sauce)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dry mustard
  • 200 g shredded cheddar cheese

For the Pasta

  • 200 g uncooked macaroni

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 175 degrees C (350 degrees F).
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 60 ml milk, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
  • Press the meat mixture into a greased baking dish, forming an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Cooking the Pasta and Cheese Sauce

  • While the meatloaf is baking, cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  • For the cheese sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Stir in the flour and cook for about one minute, stirring continuously.
  • Gradually whisk in 480 ml of milk, continuing to cook until the mixture thickens.
  • Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard, stirring until well combined.
  • Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth.

Assembly and Baking

  • Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing until the pasta is well coated.
  • Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture over the baked meatloaf layer evenly.
  • Top with the remaining cheese, then return to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Notes

For added flavor, mix different types of cheese. Consider broiling the top for a crispy finish.