![- 1 lb ground beef - 1 cup breadcrumbs - 1 egg - 2 cups cooked macaroni pasta - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup milk - 1/2 cup sour cream - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste Gathering the right ingredients is key for a great Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. Start with the main ingredients. You need one pound of ground beef. This will be the heart of the dish. Add one cup of breadcrumbs to bind everything together. Crack in one egg. This helps the meatloaf hold its shape. Don't forget the two cups of cooked macaroni pasta. This makes it a true comfort meal. Next, let’s talk about the dairy. For that creamy mac and cheese flavor, you need two cups of shredded cheddar cheese. This is what makes it ooey-gooey. One cup of milk adds moisture. Half a cup of sour cream gives richness. Finally, include half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy kick. Now, let's spice things up. You want flavor in every bite. Add one teaspoon of garlic powder. This adds a nice depth. One teaspoon of onion powder gives sweetness. Then, add one teaspoon of smoked paprika for a subtle, smoky taste. Lastly, season with salt and pepper to taste. With these ingredients in hand, you are set to make a delicious dish. For the complete preparation steps, check the Full Recipe. - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - Prepare the 9x13 inch casserole dish with grease. - Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. - Mix until everything is well combined. - Form the meat mixture into a base layer in the casserole dish. - Mix the cooked macaroni, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and sour cream. - Stir until the macaroni is well coated. - Layer the macaroni mixture on top of the meat mixture in the casserole dish. - Pour marinara sauce evenly over the macaroni layer. - Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top. - Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. For the full recipe, check out the ingredients listed above. - Ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly before serving. - Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of 160°F. When you cook this dish, checking the meat is key. Undercooked meat can lead to foodborne illness. That’s why a thermometer is your best friend. It gives you a precise reading. - Pair with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. - Garnish with fresh parsley for presentation. For a tasty meal, I love serving this casserole with a crisp salad. A side of garlic bread adds a warm touch. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley on top. It adds color and a nice flavor boost. - Avoid overcooking the macaroni before mixing. - Ensure layers are even for consistent cooking. One big mistake is overcooking the macaroni. If you do this, it can get mushy in the oven. Also, make sure your layers are even. This helps the dish cook evenly and taste great. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_2}} You can make this dish even tastier by adding different cheeses. Try using mozzarella for a stretchy texture or pepper jack for a kick. I love mixing in cream cheese; it gives the casserole a rich and creamy taste. This simple swap elevates the classic mac and cheese flavor. For a lighter version, switch the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This change keeps the dish healthy while still being delicious. If you want a smoky flavor, add bacon bits to the meat mixture. The crispy bits add a fun crunch and a savory twist. Adding vegetables is a great way to boost nutrition. I like to mix in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for color and flavor. Mushrooms also work well, giving your casserole an earthy taste. You can sneak in these veggies without losing the comfort of mac and cheese. After enjoying your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, store leftovers in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. When you're ready to eat, reheat it in the oven or microwave. This keeps the flavors intact and the cheese melty. If you want to save some for later, freeze portions in airtight containers. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This way, you can savor this comforting dish even on busy days. For the complete guide, check out the Full Recipe. You can boost the flavor of this dish easily. Try adding spices like cumin or chili powder. Fresh herbs, like basil or thyme, can also elevate it. A dash of hot sauce can bring some heat. Mix in some sautéed onions or peppers for added taste and texture. Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. Assemble the layers and cover the casserole. Refrigerate it overnight. When you're ready to bake, take it out of the fridge and let it sit for a bit. This helps the dish to cook evenly. This casserole pairs well with a fresh side. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans work great. A simple coleslaw adds crunch and a nice contrast. These sides balance the richness of the casserole. For more ideas, check the Full Recipe for extra tips! This blog post outlined how to make a tasty Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. I’ve shared storage advice and some fun variations to try. This dish is simple to make and packed with flavor. You can customize it to fit your taste. Now, gather your ingredients and enjoy making this hearty meal with those you love. Happy cooking!](https://tossedrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/51dfc473-d1cc-4cf6-90c4-a6ff11a650c8-300x300.webp)
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Craving comfort food? Try this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole that's sure to please the whole family! Combining ground beef, creamy macaroni, and gooey cheese, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it's a cozy twist on classic favorites. Click through to get the full recipe and bring this delicious casserole to your table tonight!