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–+ servings

Indulgent Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole Delight

A comforting Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole, perfect for busy weeknights and customizable for family preferences.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf Layer
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for lighter version.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for a zesty kick.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh chopped onions work beautifully too.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to enhance flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to enhance flavor.
For the Cheddar Shells Mixture
  • 2 cups Medium Pasta Shells Substitute with elbow macaroni or penne if desired.
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Alternatives like Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be used.
  • 1 can Condensed Tomato Soup Can substitute with tomato sauce mixed with a splash of cream.
  • 1 cup Milk Any milk type or plant-based options can work well.

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • mixing bowls
  • Pot for boiling pasta

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and press into the baking dish.
  3. Cook medium pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and keep warm.
  4. In another bowl, combine cooked pasta shells, shredded cheddar cheese, condensed tomato soup, and milk. Stir until creamy.
  5. Spoon the cheddar-shell mixture over the meatloaf layer, spreading it evenly.
  6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 28gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This casserole is customizable with different proteins and vegetables. Leftovers can be stored for up to 4 days in the fridge and freezes well for up to 2 months.

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