Looking for the ultimate comfort food dish that combines two family favorites? This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is an epic fusion of rich, creamy mac and cheese and hearty, savory meatloaf. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, special occasion, or just craving something indulgent, this recipe is sure to become a go-to. Packed with flavor, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping meals ahead of time. Read on to discover how you can make this mouthwatering dish step by step!
What is Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic comfort foods: macaroni and cheese and meatloaf. By layering creamy, cheesy pasta on top of a savory meatloaf base, you get a perfect combination of textures and flavors in each bite. The result is a casserole that’s gooey, meaty, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s the best of both worlds—a hearty meat dish topped with a comforting layer of mac and cheese.
Ingredients List for Mac and Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Ingredients List for Meatloaf
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to mix things up or accommodate dietary restrictions? Here are a few substitutions and variations to customize your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole:
- Meat Substitutions: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based ground meat or a lentil loaf as the base.
- Cheese Variations: Sharp cheddar works well, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free pasta for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Add Veggies: Mix in some spinach, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots to sneak in some extra nutrition.
- Bacon Lovers: Sprinkle cooked bacon bits over the mac and cheese layer before baking for added smokiness and crunch.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Prepare the Meatloaf
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined but try not to overwork the meat.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Press the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, forming an even layer. Optionally, brush some extra ketchup over the top for additional flavor and moisture.
- Bake the Meatloaf: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is almost cooked through (an internal temperature of 155°F).
How to Prepare the Mac and Cheese
While the meatloaf is baking, you can start preparing the mac and cheese:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, ground mustard, and paprika (if using). Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
How to Cook Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Layer the Casserole: Once the meatloaf has baked for about 25-30 minutes, remove it from the oven. Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer.
- Top with Extra Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the mac and cheese layer for a bubbly, golden top.
- Bake Again: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F.
- Let It Rest: After removing from the oven, allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes to set before slicing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the Meat: When mixing the meatloaf ingredients, try not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
- Dry Meatloaf: Adding too much breadcrumbs or not enough moisture can cause the meatloaf to dry out. Stick to the ingredient measurements and include the milk for tenderness.
- Runny Cheese Sauce: If your cheese sauce seems too runny, make sure you cooked the roux long enough. You can also add a bit more flour during the roux-making process for a thicker sauce.
- Skipping the Resting Period: Letting the casserole rest before slicing is crucial to help the layers set and hold together when serving.
Serving and Presentation Tips
For a dish as rich and hearty as Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, it’s all about balance when serving. Pair it with a light side dish or a crisp salad to round out the meal.
How to Serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Family Style: Cut the casserole into square servings and plate them directly from the baking dish.
- Individual Portions: Use a round cookie cutter to create individual servings for a more refined presentation.
- Garnish: Add a pop of color by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives.
Presentation Ideas for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Layer Appeal: When plating, try to keep the layers intact to showcase the beautiful contrast between the meatloaf and the cheesy macaroni.
- Baked Topping: For a gourmet touch, consider adding breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to the top of the mac and cheese layer before the final bake for extra texture and visual appeal.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf and mac and cheese components separately in advance and assemble the casserole just before baking. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well! Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
- Extra Cheese Sauce: If you’re a fan of extra cheesy mac, consider doubling the cheese sauce portion for an ultra-creamy topping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely. Any short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells will work well in place of elbow macaroni.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in the oven at 350°F or microwave until heated through.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes, adding veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can increase the nutritional value without compromising the flavor.
Q: Is there a way to make the cheese sauce lighter?
A: For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the milk with low-fat milk or use reduced-fat cheese. You can also reduce the amount of cheese slightly, though this will affect the creaminess.
Conclusion
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines the best of both worlds—creamy, cheesy pasta and a savory, satisfying meatloaf base. It’s a perfect comfort food dish for family dinners, gatherings, or special occasions. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist with variations and substitutions, this casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try it out, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!
PrintMac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole recipe combines the best of comfort foods—savory meatloaf and creamy mac and cheese—into one easy dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Egg
- Bread crumbs
- Salt
- Pepper
- Macaroni
- Cheddar cheese
- Milk
- Butter
- Flour
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper.
- Press meat mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Cook macaroni as directed and prepare cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and cheddar.
- Pour mac and cheese over the meatloaf.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
For added flavor, mix some shredded cheese into the meatloaf base. You can also use different types of cheese to suit your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. ⅙th of casserole)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
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