Name: Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 500 g (1 lb) ground beef; 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk; 1 egg; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/4 cup (60 ml) ketchup; 2 cups (200 g) elbow macaroni, cooked; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk; 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever struggled to choose between classic comfort food favorites, this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is your delicious solution. It’s the ultimate mashup, layering a juicy, flavorful meatloaf base with luxuriously creamy mac and cheese, all baked together into a golden-topped casserole that could win over even the pickiest eaters. This dish brings together nostalgia, heartiness, and cheesy bliss in every bite, making it the kind of family dinner that will instantly become a legend around your table.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is that every ingredient serves a real purpose, making it both easy to prepare and deeply flavorful. With just a handful of pantry and fridge staples, you can create magic—each element plays a delicious role in taste, texture, or color.

Ground beef: The meaty backbone of your casserole, contributing richness and juiciness.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf base and keeps it tender.
Milk (for meatloaf): Softens the breadcrumbs and adds moisture.
Egg: Binds everything together so your meatloaf base slices beautifully.
Onion: Adds natural sweetness and aroma to the meatloaf.
Garlic: Gives a subtle background warmth and depth.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings so every bite is flavorful.
Worcestershire sauce: A splash of umami that amps up the savory profile.
Ketchup: Lends tang and color—classic meatloaf magic.
Elbow macaroni: The best shape for catching all that luscious cheese sauce.
Butter: The base of a good roux, giving the cheese sauce its creamy richness.
All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce for that silky mac and cheese texture.
Whole milk: Ensures a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty and sharp, this cheese is essential for “pull-apart” perfection.
Mustard powder (optional): A pinch deepens the cheese flavor and adds a nostalgic zing.
Extra salt and pepper: For final seasoning adjustments in your cheese sauce.

How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 180°C (350°F), setting the stage for your casserole to bake to perfect doneness. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this prevents sticking and makes both serving and cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base

Grab a large bowl and mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. The key here is to combine just until everything is incorporated; over-mixing can make the meatloaf tough. You want a uniform mixture that still feels tender and moist in your hands.

Step 3: Shape and Pre-Bake

Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, forming a smooth, compact layer. Slide it into the oven and bake for 15 minutes—this quick pre-bake ensures the meat holds its shape and develops just the right amount of savory crust before meeting the mac and cheese layer.

Step 4: Prepare Your Mac and Cheese

While the meatloaf bakes, melt the butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Stir in the flour to form a roux, letting it cook for a minute or two. Slowly whisk in the milk so you get a silky-smooth base for your cheese sauce. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens—hang in there, the creamy payoff is worth it! Remove from the heat, then stir in the cheddar cheese until fully melted and glossy. Add a pinch of mustard powder if you like a hint of nostalgic bite, and season with salt and pepper. Toss the cooked macaroni into this cheesy goodness until every noodle is coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Take the meatloaf base from the oven and evenly spread the mac and cheese over the top, covering every inch. Don’t be shy—this is where the magic happens. Finish with a generous handful of extra shredded cheddar for that picture-perfect golden topping.

Step 6: Bake To Cheesy Perfection

Slide the casserole back into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The cheese should be bubbling, golden, and calling your name! Once done, let everything rest for 5 minutes before slicing—this makes serving neat and ensures each layer sets just right.

How to Serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Garnishes

For a burst of color and extra flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the casserole right before serving. If you want to add a tangy snap, a few pickled jalapeño slices make a playful topper. The rich, cheesy surface also welcomes a dusting of smoked paprika or even a tiny drizzle of hot sauce for those who like a little heat.

Side Dishes

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a meal all on its own, but it shines even brighter with some crisp accompaniments. A lightly dressed green salad or steamed green beans contrast the rich casserole layers. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a simple garlic bread helps mop up any cheesy bits left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your casserole into a true showstopper by baking it in individual ramekins for a dinner-party-friendly touch. For a fun, family-style approach, scoop generous portions into shallow bowls and top with a cascade of extra cheese. Or, for a picnic-inspired twist, cut the cooled casserole into squares and tuck them into lunchboxes—Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole tastes just as great at room temperature!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld wonderfully overnight, and leftovers are just as irresistible the next day. Slice into smaller portions for quick weekday lunches!

Freezing

Looking for a freezer-friendly dinner? Absolutely! Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly (either the whole pan or individual slices) in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label with the date—you’ll want to revisit this comfort food sooner than you think.

Reheating

To reheat, place slices or the whole casserole (uncovered) in a 180°C (350°F) oven until hot and bubbly, about 20 minutes for individual portions or 30-35 minutes for a larger amount. If microwaving, cover loosely and heat in 60-second bursts for perfectly moist results.

FAQs

Can I make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole with ground turkey?

Yes! You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or even ground chicken for a lighter twist. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as leaner meats can cook a little faster—use a thermometer to ensure the meatloaf base is fully cooked before assembling.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely—the recipe is very versatile. Stir chopped bell peppers, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms into the meatloaf layer, or toss steamed broccoli florets in with the mac and cheese for extra nutrition and color.

What’s the best cheese to use in the mac and cheese layer?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. However, mixing in some Monterey Jack or mozzarella adds even more gooey meltiness, while a little Parmesan will bring a delightful salty tang.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Prepare the meatloaf base and the mac and cheese layer up to a day in advance, then assemble and bake when ready. If assembling straight from the fridge, add a few extra minutes to your baking time to ensure it heats through evenly.

What’s the best way to keep the casserole from getting watery?

Avoid overmixing the meatloaf base, drain your cooked macaroni thoroughly, and let the casserole rest before slicing. These tips will keep all the layers perfectly set and flavorful without unwanted moisture.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about the way Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole brings smiles to the table—it’s comfort food squared, and then some! If you’re ready for a cozy dinner that packs both nostalgia and wow-factor, give this recipe a try. Your loved ones will thank you for every cheesy, savory forkful!

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 18 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines two classic comfort foods into one hearty dish. A savory ground beef meatloaf base topped with creamy macaroni and cheese, baked to perfection for a family-favorite meal.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Meatloaf Base: Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Press into baking dish.
Bake the Meatloaf Base: Bake for 15 minutes.
Prepare the Mac and Cheese: Make a cheese sauce, mix with cooked macaroni.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread mac and cheese over the meatloaf base.
Bake the Casserole: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.