Description
This Meatloaf Casserole combines classic meatloaf with creamy cheddar shells for a hearty, comforting, and family-friendly dinner all in one baking dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 cups cooked cheddar pasta shells (or boxed shells and cheese, prepared)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until just combined and press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until meat is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- While meatloaf is baking, prepare the cheddar shells according to package directions if not already done.
- Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and spread the prepared cheddar shells evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the pasta layer.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the casserole.
- You can substitute the cheddar shells with homemade mac and cheese if desired.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- This recipe can be doubled and baked in a 9×13 dish for a larger crowd.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
