Looking for the ultimate comfort food dinner that brings together two American classics? This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines creamy, cheesy macaroni and savory ground beef meatloaf in one irresistible, hearty bake.
Perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or potlucks, this dish layers tender pasta, rich cheese sauce, and seasoned ground beef all in one baking dish. It’s filling, crowd-pleasing, and totally satisfying—a true comfort food fusion you’ll make again and again.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf Base:
- 1½ lbs ground beef
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup ketchup (for topping meatloaf layer)
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Boil macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Meatloaf Layer
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread ketchup over the top of the meat mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until partially cooked and just starting to brown. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
- While meatloaf bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and stir until thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
- Add shredded cheese, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Mix cheese sauce with cooked macaroni.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the mac and cheese evenly on top of the meatloaf layer. Sprinkle with extra cheese.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
Variation:
- Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Bacon twist: Mix cooked bacon bits into the mac and cheese.
- Veggie add-ins: Stir in cooked spinach, peas, or diced tomatoes to lighten it up.
- Low-carb: Use cauliflower mac instead of pasta and lean turkey for meatloaf.
- BBQ flavor: Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce on the meatloaf layer.
COOKING Note:
Drain grease from the meatloaf layer before adding mac and cheese to avoid sogginess. You can also pre-bake the meatloaf in muffin tins for individual servings.
Serving Suggestions:
- With salad: Pair with a green salad or steamed veggies for balance.
- As a full meal: This dish is hearty enough to stand alone.
- For leftovers: Reheat covered in the oven or microwave for a next-day treat.
- For game day: Slice into squares and serve on a tray for party bites!
Tips:
- Don’t overmix the meatloaf to keep it tender.
- Use sharp cheddar for the best cheese flavor.
- Make ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months in airtight containers.
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 5 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information (approx. per serving, 8 servings):
- Calories: ~520
- Protein: ~28g
- Carbohydrates: ~32g
- Fat: ~30g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~5g
- Sodium: ~540mg
Values may vary based on ingredients and cheese used.
❓FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
- Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version.
Can I make this ahead of time?
- Absolutely—assemble fully, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 1 day before baking.
What cheese is best for this recipe?
- Sharp cheddar is classic, but a mix of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby can work too.
How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I use boxed mac and cheese?
- Yes! It’s a great time-saver. Just prepare according to package directions and layer as described.
Conclusion:
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a family-style, feel-good dinner that checks every box: cheesy, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for the ultimate weeknight comfort meal, this dish delivers.
Layered with classic meatloaf and creamy mac and cheese, it’s the kind of recipe that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Make it once, and you’ll want it in your regular rotation!