Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Looking for the ultimate comfort food mash-up? This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole brings together two family favorites in one delicious, hearty dish. A flavorful layer of tender meatloaf is topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni, baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s a filling, fun, and crave-worthy dinner that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Two Classics in One – Meatloaf and mac & cheese together in a single dish
Crowd-Pleaser – A family-friendly dinner everyone will love
Make-Ahead Friendly – Easy to prepare in advance and bake later
Ultra Comforting – Creamy, cheesy, and hearty in every bite
Versatile – Add veggies or spices to make it your own

Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 6–8)

For the Meatloaf Layer:
1 lb ground beef
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp ground mustard (optional)

Topping (Optional):
½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Chopped parsley or chives, for garnish

Tools You’ll Need
Large pot (for pasta and cheese sauce)
Mixing bowls
9×13 inch casserole dish
Skillet (optional, for sautéing onion/garlic)
Whisk & spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Boil a large pot of salted water.
Cook macaroni until just al dente (1–2 minutes less than package instructions).
Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Layer
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and oregano.
Spread the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 casserole dish.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the top is browned and partially cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
While the meatloaf bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan (if using), salt, paprika, and mustard.
Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Remove the casserole dish from the oven.
Spread the cooked macaroni over the meatloaf layer.
Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and gently stir or pat to even out.
Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is lightly golden.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives.
Serve hot with a side salad, green beans, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Use lean ground beef – Reduces excess grease in the dish
Undercook the pasta slightly – Prevents mushy texture
Add spice – Try chili flakes or hot sauce for a kick
Make it veggie-packed – Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas to the cheese sauce
Let it rest – Helps the casserole hold together when slicing

Serving Suggestions
With Garlic Bread – For the ultimate comfort food plate
With Green Salad – A crisp, fresh contrast to the richness
With Steamed Broccoli – Classic combo
With Pickles – A tangy balance to the creamy flavors
As Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months

Reheating:
Oven: Cover with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes
Microwave: Heat single servings on medium in 1-minute intervals

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Penne, shells, or rotini all work well.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs, and thicken the cheese sauce with cornstarch or gluten-free flour.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the entire casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if cold.

Can I swap the ground beef?
Yes – use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based mince for variations.

Can I use store-bought mac and cheese?
Sure! For a shortcut, layer boxed mac and cheese over the pre-baked meatloaf.

Final Thoughts
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is everything you want in a comfort food dinner: rich, hearty, cheesy, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging in your favorite homestyle flavors, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot.
Make it tonight and enjoy the best of two classic dishes in one cozy bake!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 540 | Protein: 32g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 32g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 580mg

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