After seeing this recipe, I am never making this any other way again!

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Food Combo!

Bring together two of America’s most beloved comfort foods — meatloaf and mac and cheese — in this rich, cheesy, and satisfying Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or Sunday suppers, this dish combines tender, flavorful ground beef with creamy baked macaroni for a meal that’s pure comfort on a plate.

Ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground beef	1 ½ lbs
Onion, finely diced	1 small
Garlic, minced	2 cloves
Breadcrumbs	¾ cup
Milk	½ cup
Egg	1
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon
Ketchup	⅓ cup
Salt	1 teaspoon
Black pepper	½ teaspoon
Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)	1 cup

For the Mac and Cheese:

Ingredient	Quantity
Elbow macaroni	2 cups
Butter	¼ cup
All-purpose flour	¼ cup
Milk	2 cups
Heavy cream	1 cup
Shredded cheddar cheese	2 cups
Shredded mozzarella cheese	1 cup
Salt and pepper	To taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Make the Meatloaf Base:
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
   Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, forming a flat layer. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until nearly cooked through.
3. Cook the Pasta:
   While the meatloaf bakes, cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring until smooth and thickened.
   Add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   Pour the prepared mac and cheese over the baked meatloaf layer, spreading evenly. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top for that irresistible golden crust.
6. Bake Until Golden:
   Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly browned.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side of green beans or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips:

• Add crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Mix in bacon bits or jalapeños for extra flavor.