Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food mashup, look no further than Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. Creamy, cheesy macaroni layered over savory meatloaf and baked until golden—it’s two timeless family favorites in one irresistible dish!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole pulls together familiar, easy-to-find ingredients, each one chosen for maximum flavor and perfect texture. Every component—from the tender ground beef to the ultra-creamy cheese sauce—brings its own magic to the party, creating an ultra-satisfying casserole you’ll want to make again and again.

• Ground Beef (1 lb): Provides that hearty, classic meatloaf base—choose lean for less grease, or go with regular for more flavor depth.
• Onion (1/2 cup, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and a tiny bit of crunch throughout the meat layer.
• Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Hold everything together and help the meatloaf stay perfectly moist.
• Egg (1 large): Binds the meat mixture so it doesn’t fall apart when serving.
• Milk (1/4 cup in meatloaf, 2 cups in cheese sauce): Adds tender moisture to the meatloaf and creates a silky, luscious cheese sauce.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning for both layers that brings every flavor to life.
• Macaroni (2 cups, uncooked): The classic pasta shape for soaking up rich cheese sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Sharp cheddar is a must for that signature cheesy pull—don’t be shy with it!
• Butter (2 tbsp): Gives the cheese sauce body and flavor you just can’t get from oil.
• Flour (2 tbsp): Helps thicken the cheese sauce to the perfect consistency, so every bite is creamy—not runny.
• Paprika (1/2 tsp): For a gentle dash of warmth and a pop of pretty color.
• Dry Mustard (1/2 tsp): Lifts the cheese flavor and keeps the sauce from tasting flat.

Variations

One of the best things about Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole? It’s incredibly adaptable! Feel free to mix and match flavors, swap out cheeses, or sneak in your own favorite twists based on your family’s tastes or what’s in your pantry.

• Use Different Meats: Try ground turkey, pork, or a blend for a lighter or more robust flavor.
• Add Veggies: Sneak in finely grated carrots, spinach, or bell peppers to the meatloaf for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: Stir a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce into the cheese sauce if your crew likes a little extra kick.
• Cheese Varieties: Mix in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a creamier or more complex cheese layer.
• Gluten Free Option: Substitute gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for an allergy-friendly spin on this classic.

How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), then grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spatula to mix just until everything is evenly combined—over-mixing will make your meatloaf tough. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form a uniform base.

Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf Layer

Pop the dish into your heated oven for 20 minutes. This first bake gives the meatloaf a head start; it should be just cooked through and will finish perfectly with the cheesy topping later. Meanwhile, you can move on to the next steps to keep things moving!

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

While the meatloaf bakes, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—you want it sturdy enough to hold up under that luscious cheese sauce. Drain the pasta well and set it aside so it doesn’t get mushy.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for about a minute to cook off any raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, pouring slowly to avoid lumps, and cook until the sauce is thickened—this takes just a few minutes. Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, dry mustard, and 1½ cups of cheddar cheese until it’s all melted and silky smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Stir the cooked macaroni into your creamy cheese sauce, making sure every noodle is coated in that golden goodness. Pour this mac and cheese mixture evenly over the partially baked meatloaf. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for extra meltiness and a touch of crispy, golden brown on top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole back into the oven for another 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and deliciously browned around the edges. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving, so you get those perfect slices with distinct layers of cozy comfort.

How to Serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Garnishes

This casserole is already beautiful thanks to its bubbling cheese, but a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives just before serving adds color and freshness. If you like a little crunch, try a dusting of toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions on top—it’ll make each bite extra special!

Side Dishes

Since Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is so hearty, go light with the sides! A simple green salad, some steamed broccoli, or vibrant roasted veggies perfectly balance the richness and add a splash of color to your table.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeding a crowd, cut the casserole into small squares and serve them as party bites or sliders. For a weeknight dinner, serve generous slices and let the melty cheese spill over the plate—comfort food at its finest! You can even bake the casserole in muffin tins for fun, portable portions kids will absolutely love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole keeps beautifully! Let it cool to room temperature, then cover tightly with foil or transfer slices to airtight containers. It will stay fresh and tasty in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days—perfect for easy heat-and-eat lunches.

Freezing

This casserole freezes surprisingly well. Once cooled, wrap the whole dish tightly in foil and plastic wrap, or portion into freezer-safe containers. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

For the tastiest results, reheat leftover Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole in a 350°F oven, covered, until hot all the way through. Microwaving works in a pinch—just splash a little milk over the cheesy top before heating to keep it extra creamy!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving feel-good food that brings everyone to the table, Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a guaranteed win. It’s warm, playful, and deeply satisfying—just the kind of meal you’ll want to share with the people you love most. Give this cozy classic a try and watch it disappear!

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