Ever dreamed of combining two of your favorite comfort foods into one mouthwatering dish? Well, meet the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole—a creamy, cheesy, meaty creation that’s as satisfying as it sounds. It’s the kind of dinner that makes everyone gather around the table with excitement.
In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to make it step-by-step, with simple ingredients and helpful tips so it turns out perfect every time. If you’re looking for a hearty family dinner that’s both easy and impressive, you’re in the right place.
What is Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?
Simply put, this casserole layers juicy meatloaf at the bottom and tops it with creamy mac and cheese. It’s then baked until bubbly and golden. Unlike traditional casseroles, this one gives you the best of both worlds: protein-packed meat and indulgent pasta. It’s the ultimate hybrid dish—perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight when you have an hour to spare for a hearty meal.
Ingredients Overview
For the Meatloaf Layer
- 1 lb ground beef (or a beef-pork mix)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mac and Cheese Layer
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tools and Kitchen Essentials
- A 9×13 casserole dish
- Mixing bowls
- Cheese grater
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking sheet (for catching spills)
Pro tip: Line your casserole dish with foil for quick cleanup!
How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prep the Meatloaf Mixture
In a bowl, mix the ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper. Use your hands for best results!
Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf Base
Press the meat mixture evenly into a greased casserole dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni
Boil the pasta until just al dente. Don’t overcook it—it’ll bake again later.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk. Cook until thickened, then stir in the cheese until melted. Season with mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Layer It Up
Once the meatloaf is partially baked, spread the mac and cheese evenly on top.
Step 6: Final Bake
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Add a dash of smoked paprika for depth.
- Don’t skip resting the meatloaf before layering.
- Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor.
- Mix in a bit of cream cheese for an ultra-creamy mac.
Customization Ideas
Here is how you can customize this mac and cheese meatloaf casserole recipe.
Spice It Up
Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a kick.
Make It Healthier
Swap ground beef with ground turkey, use whole wheat pasta, and low-fat cheese.
Add-Ins and Mix-Ins
Mix in cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach to upgrade your layers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this mac and cheese meatloaf casserole with:
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- A crisp garden salad
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week!
Storage and Reheating Tips
- To Store: Cover tightly and refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
- To Freeze: Cool completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To Reheat: Microwave single servings or reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved
- Mac and cheese? ✔️
Meatloaf? ✔️
Together? Game changer.
Kids love the cheesy top and tender meat, and parents love how easy it is to make and store. Total family win!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 34g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
Want to lighten it up? Use lean ground meat and low-fat cheese.
More Dinner Recipes:
- Garlic Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli
- Barefoot Contessa Turkey Burger
- Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meat – leads to tough meatloaf
- Overcooking pasta – becomes mushy when baked
- Not draining pasta well – makes the dish watery
- Using too little seasoning – bland layers
Conclusion
There’s just something magical about comfort food—and Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole delivers it in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to a gathering, this cheesy-meaty combo is bound to be a hit.
So roll up those sleeves and give it a go—you might just find your new favorite dinner!
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought mac and cheese?
Yes, especially for busy nights. Just make sure it’s thick enough and not watery.
2. What meat is best for the meatloaf?
A mix of ground beef and pork gives the best flavor, but ground turkey works great too.
3. How do I keep it from falling apart?
Let the casserole rest 10–15 minutes before cutting. It helps everything set.
4. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta, breadcrumbs, and flour in the cheese sauce.
5. How long can it stay in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat well before serving.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup for topping
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk warm
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp paprika for flavor and color
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Press the meat mixture into a greased 9x9-inch baking dish, forming an even layer.
- Spread ketchup over the top of the meatloaf layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in the warm milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
- Remove meatloaf from oven. Carefully spread the mac and cheese evenly over the meat layer.
- Return to oven and bake for another 15 minutes, until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.