Creamy, cheesy, and unapologetically hearty Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the kind of dinner that brings the whole family running to the table. It’s the ultimate comfort food hybrid: classic meatloaf on the bottom, topped with rich, creamy macaroni and cheese, then baked to golden perfection. Think of it as the meatloaf your grandma made… with a gooey, delicious twist.
This recipe takes all the best parts of two beloved dishes and marries them into one satisfying, flavor-packed meal. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make. You can prep it in under 30 minutes, and it bakes into a hearty casserole that serves a hungry crowd. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something ultra-comforting, this dish will not disappoint.
What is Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?
So, what exactly is Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole? In short, it’s a brilliant fusion of two American staples. You take a seasoned ground beef meatloaf base, press it into a casserole dish, then layer it with homemade mac and cheese. Everything bakes together into a layered dinner masterpiece.
You might be wondering who thought of this? Someone hungry and genius, that’s who! It’s the kind of recipe that makes you go, “Why didn’t I think of this sooner?” Like they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this dish? It’s a direct route. Trust us this is a casserole you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a winner:
- Two Comfort Foods in One: You get juicy meatloaf and creamy mac and cheese in every bite.
- Family Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist cheesy pasta and savory beef.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.
- Budget-Conscious Ingredients: Ground beef, pasta, cheese affordable and filling.
- One Pan, No Fuss: Fewer dishes and easy layering make it weeknight-friendly.
This casserole is hearty, cheesy, and just plain satisfying. It’s like a warm hug in a dish!
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Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines two classic comfort foods into one satisfying dish. A savory meatloaf layer is topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni and baked until golden and bubbly perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Base:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
Optional Topping:
- 1/2 cup additional shredded cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1 Prepare the Meatloaf Base
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
Mix until just combined and press evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish
Bake for 20 minutes while preparing the mac and cheese
2 Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil
Cook elbow macaroni until al dente according to package directions
Drain and set aside
3 Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute
Gradually whisk in milk and cook until slightly thickened
Stir in cheddar cheese, salt, and paprika until melted and smooth
4 Assemble and Bake
Spread the cooked macaroni evenly over the baked meatloaf layer
Pour cheese sauce over the top and gently stir to combine, if desired
Sprinkle with additional cheese if using
Return to oven and bake for 15–20 more minutes until bubbly and golden
5 Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired
Notes
Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for extra flavor
Add cooked vegetables like peas or broccoli to the mac and cheese for more nutrition
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, Comfort Food Casserole, Meatloaf with Macaroni, Easy Family Dinner Recipe, Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole,Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf
How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Quick Overview
This casserole starts with a meatloaf-style ground beef layer, seasoned and pressed into a baking dish. While that bakes, you whip up a stovetop mac and cheese. Then you layer it on top and return it to the oven for a cheesy, bubbling finish.
Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 ½ lbs | Lean, 80/20 preferred |
| Onion | 1 small | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Breadcrumbs | ½ cup | Plain or Italian style |
| Egg | 1 | Beaten |
| Ketchup | ¼ cup | Plus more for topping (optional) |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Freshly ground |
| Elbow macaroni | 2 cups (uncooked) | Cooked according to package |
| Butter | 3 tbsp | Unsalted |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp | For roux |
| Milk | 2 cups | Whole milk preferred |
| Cheddar cheese | 2 cups (shredded) | Sharp or mild, your choice |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup (optional) | Freshly grated for extra flavor |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Meatloaf Base
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined don’t overmix or the meat will get tough. Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 casserole dish. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
Prepare the Mac and Cheese
While the meatloaf is baking, cook your elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, then slowly whisk in the milk. Let the sauce thicken for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in the shredded cheddar (and parmesan if using) until melted and smooth. Add the cooked macaroni and stir to coat evenly.
Assemble the Casserole
Remove the meatloaf base from the oven. If there’s excess fat, drain it off. Spoon the mac and cheese evenly over the meatloaf layer. Smooth out the top with a spatula and sprinkle a little extra cheese if desired.
Final Bake
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden. For a crispy cheesy crust, broil the top for the last 2–3 minutes just keep an eye on it.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving much easier. Plate it up and watch smiles appear around your table.
What to Serve With Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
This hearty casserole is already loaded with flavor and richness, so the best sides are simple, fresh, and light to balance the meal. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside:
Vegetable Sides:
- Steamed green beans or sautéed spinach with garlic are quick and clean options.
- For a baked veggie side, try this cheesy and satisfying Brussels Cabbage Recipe for a crunchy contrast.
Salads:
- A basic garden salad with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and vinaigrette adds refreshing crunch.
- Or go for a heartier side like the tangy and colorful Southwest Chicken Salad great if you’re feeding a crowd.
Bread & Carbs:
- Warm rolls or cornbread are perfect for soaking up flavor.
- If you want a fun alternative, serve with these soft, buttery Crescent Roll Hot Dogs for kids or picky eaters.
Light Desserts:
- Cap off the meal with something not too heavy like these fluffy Lemon Bliss Tarts.
- Or add a nostalgic treat with Cotton Candy Poke Cake for a fun finish.
These pairings create the perfect meal experience balancing hearty, creamy casserole with crisp, fresh, and playful flavors.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- Avoid overcooking pasta since it will bake again with the casserole.
- Drain the meatloaf layer before topping to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Customize the mac by adding smoked gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
- Let it rest before cutting to avoid messy slices.
- Add a ketchup or BBQ drizzle on top before baking for a tangy twist.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This casserole stores like a dream and tastes even better the next day.
To Store:
Cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or place in airtight containers. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
Wrap individual portions or the entire casserole in foil and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To Reheat:
Microwave individual servings on medium power for 2–3 minutes. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes, or until warmed through.
FAQs About Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Can I use boxed mac and cheese for this recipe?
Yes! While homemade mac and cheese gives a richer flavor, boxed mac and cheese can be a great time-saving shortcut.
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well just add a bit more seasoning to boost flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble everything and refrigerate it before the final bake. Add 5–10 extra minutes of bake time when cooking from cold.
How do I keep the casserole from being greasy?
Use lean ground beef and make sure to drain excess fat after baking the meatloaf layer before adding the mac and cheese.
What cheeses work best for the mac and cheese topping?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or smoked gouda for extra flavor.