If you dream in layers of creamy cheddar macaroni and savory, perfectly seasoned meatloaf, then The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is about to become your new obsession. Imagine the comfort of classic mac and cheese, swirled atop a traditional meatloaf, then baked until golden and bubbling. This all-in-one casserole delivers hearty family-dinner satisfaction, cheesy nostalgia, and a little surprise in every bite. Whether you’re trying to win over picky eaters, or you just want to treat your crew to the ultimate cozy meal, this recipe is here to make memories around your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything you need for The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is probably already in your kitchen, and each ingredient is a building block for flavor, texture, and pure comfort food magic. Here’s what makes this dish so irresistible, and why every component matters:
- Ground beef: The juicy, hearty foundation that supports every cheesy bite—use an 80/20 mix for the best balance of moisture and flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Give the meatloaf structure and tenderness without making it dense—a handful is all you need.
- Egg: Acts as the glue, holding the meatloaf together as it bakes and keeping it moist.
- Milk: Softens the breadcrumbs and helps both the meatloaf and cheese sauce stay creamy.
- Garlic powder & onion powder: These pantry staples infuse the entire casserole with subtle savory depth.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer, so the flavors really shine.
- Ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness to the meatloaf and makes a classic topping if you love that glaze.
- Elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape for cradling creamy cheese sauce over the meatloaf—plus, they cook up super quick.
- Butter: Forms the base of a roux to thicken your cheese sauce and add richness.
- All-purpose flour: Whisked with butter to create a silky, no-lump sauce for the cheesy layer.
- Cheddar cheese: Finely shredded cheddar melts like a dream and brings that classic mac and cheese flavor.
- Paprika & mustard powder: These two add color, warmth, and a gentle tang to brighten the cheese sauce.
- Shredded mozzarella (or extra cheddar): Sprinkled on top for melty, golden perfection.
How to Make The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup of milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and 1/2 cup of ketchup. Use your hands (the best tools for the job!) to mix everything just until combined—overmixing can make things tough, so gentle is the way. Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form a level meatloaf base. This will hold your cheesy macaroni layer later on!
Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf Base
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. This first bake gives the meatloaf the head start it needs, helping it set up just enough to handle the rich mac and cheese you’ll add next. While it cooks, move on to the pasta and sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions—just until al dente. Don’t overcook, since the pasta will spend more time in the oven. Once ready, drain and set aside while you whip up that glorious cheese sauce.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook, stirring, for about a minute to remove any raw taste. Now, slowly pour in the remaining 2 cups of milk while whisking constantly. As the mixture thickens, add your shredded cheddar, paprika, mustard powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep stirring until smooth and velvety. Stir in your cooked macaroni, ensuring each piece gets its fair share of cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Remove your par-baked meatloaf from the oven. If you love extra tang, spread a very thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf before layering on the mac and cheese. Spoon your creamy macaroni and cheese evenly on top of the meatloaf base, then sprinkle with mozzarella or a bit more cheddar. Pop it all back into the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly at the edges.
Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve
Patience, friend! Let The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps everything meld together so you get those perfect squares of hearty, cheesy, meaty perfection.
How to Serve The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Garnishes
A little sprinkle makes a big difference! Try topping each serving with a dusting of chopped fresh parsley or chives for color and freshness. A few twists of cracked black pepper or a light drizzle of hot sauce can also wake up the flavors for grown-up palates.
Side Dishes
Since The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole already brings protein, carbs, and cheese to the party, pairing it with a crisp green salad or simple steamed vegetables gives perfect balance. Garlic green beans, roasted broccoli, or even a zippy coleslaw all work beautifully on the side without weighing things down.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn weeknight dinners into special occasions by cutting the casserole into neat squares and stacking them for a restaurant-style look. Or serve it family-style right out of the baking dish, letting everyone help themselves. For potlucks, try making mini versions in muffin tins—each one its own perfect little portion!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or stash slices in airtight containers. The casserole keeps in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully—just another reason to make a little extra!
Freezing
The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole freezes like a champ. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then wrap well with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To use, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired. If you prefer, freeze individual portions for fast solo meals.
Reheating
For best results, bake slices in a 350°F oven covered with foil until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too—just heat on medium in short bursts, and add a splash of milk to keep everything moist and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic swap that keeps things juicy and flavorful. You might want to add a touch more seasoning for extra depth, but it’s a great lighter alternative for The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole.
What type Main Course
Sharp cheddar is classic for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or even gouda for a fun twist. Mixing cheeses can add layers of flavor and a creamier texture.
Can I make The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the whole casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking as directed.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
It’s a huge hit with kids! The familiar flavors of both mac and cheese and meatloaf combine in a way that picky eaters usually love. Just go light on the spices if you have super-sensitive palates at home.
How do I keep the cheese sauce extra creamy?
Make sure not to overcook your roux, and add the cheese slowly, stirring until completely smooth after each addition. A splash of milk or a bit of cream added at the end can also help maintain that luscious texture.
Final Thoughts
If you love comfort food with a twist, give The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole a try. Each bite is a warm hug, guaranteed to put a smile on every face at your table. Trust me, you’re going to want seconds!
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The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. A delicious twist on classic meatloaf, this dish combines a savory meatloaf base with a creamy mac and cheese topping, creating a satisfying and hearty meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or additional cheddar for topping
Meatloaf Base:
Mac and Cheese Topping:
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and ketchup until well combined.
- Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the meatloaf base. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Cook elbow macaroni until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk while whisking. Stir in cheddar cheese, paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add cooked macaroni, stir to coat. Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the meatloaf base if desired. Spoon mac and cheese over meatloaf, sprinkle with mozzarella. Bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a spicy twist, add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- You can also use ground turkey or pork as a variation on the meatloaf base.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
