Description
A comfort-food twist combining creamy mac and cheese with classic savory meatloaf. This hearty dish features a cheesy macaroni layer baked inside a flavorful ground beef mixture, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Optionally topped with breadcrumbs or Ritz crackers for extra crunch.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (serves 6–8):
For the Meatloaf:
1 ½ lbs ground beef (or mix beef + pork)
1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz crackers)
1 large egg
½ cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Mac and Cheese:
2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
For the Topping:
½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
Extra shredded cheddar for sprinkling
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mac and Cheese
Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux, cooking 1–2 minutes.
Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.
Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and mustard powder.
Fold in cooked macaroni and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Meatloaf
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a greased loaf pan, spread half of the meat mixture evenly.
Layer the mac and cheese on top of the meat.
Cover with the remaining meat mixture, pressing lightly to seal the edges.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
Add a light layer of extra cheddar if desired.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 50–60 minutes, until meat is cooked through (internal temp 160°F/71°C) and topping is golden.
Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Crockpot Version: Layer meat and mac in a greased crockpot, cook on low 3–4 hours.
Make Ahead: Assemble the meatloaf a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake the next day.
Leftovers: Slice and pan-fry for sandwiches, or crumble over salads.
Smoky Twist: Add smoked cheddar or a dash of liquid smoke for a richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
- Category: Main / Comfort Food
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American