Irresistible Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

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When two iconic comfort foods come together, the result is nothing short of legendary. Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines the hearty, savory goodness of classic meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy indulgence of macaroni and cheese—all baked into one irresistible dish. This recipe delivers big flavor, satisfying textures, and nostalgic comfort in every bite.

Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual gatherings, this meatloaf macaroni casserole is designed to please picky eaters and comfort-food lovers alike. It’s filling, budget-friendly, and made with pantry staples, making it a reliable go-to for home cooks looking to feed a crowd without stress.

Why This Comfort Food Mashup Works

Meatloaf brings savory depth, while mac and cheese adds rich creaminess. Baking them together allows the flavors to meld, creating layers of texture—tender meat, creamy pasta, and a lightly crisp cheese topping. The result is a dish that feels indulgent yet familiar, elevated without being complicated.

This casserole also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers and meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Layer:

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Mac and Cheese Layer:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt, to taste

Optional Topping:

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the Meatloaf Base:
    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Bake the Meatloaf Layer:
    Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes.
  4. Cook the Macaroni:
    While the meatloaf bakes, cook macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  5. Make the Cheese Sauce:
    In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth and thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese, paprika, and salt until melted.
  6. Combine Mac and Cheese:
    Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
  7. Assemble the Casserole:
    Remove meatloaf from oven. Spread mac and cheese evenly over the meatloaf layer. Sprinkle with additional cheese if desired.
  8. Bake Until Bubbly:
    Return to oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is melted and lightly golden.
  9. Rest and Serve:
    Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t Overmix Meatloaf: This keeps it tender and juicy.
  • Use Sharp Cheese: Enhances flavor without extra salt.
  • Let It Rest: Allows layers to set for cleaner slices.
  • Extra Crunch: Add buttered breadcrumbs on top before baking.

Variations

  • BBQ Twist: Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce in the meatloaf.
  • Bacon Lover’s Version: Add cooked crumbled bacon to the mac and cheese.
  • Turkey Option: Use ground turkey for a lighter casserole.
  • Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this family dinner casserole with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted green beans to balance the richness. It also pairs well with simple dinner rolls or garlic bread.

Storage & Reheating

  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven at 325°F.
  • Freezes well for up to 2 months when tightly wrapped.

Comfort Food Appeal

Casseroles have long been a staple of home cooking because they’re efficient, comforting, and communal. This mac and cheese meatloaf casserole honors that tradition while offering a fun, crave-worthy twist on two classics.

Final Thoughts

Irresistible Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is comfort food at its finest—hearty, cheesy, and endlessly satisfying. Whether feeding a family or stocking the fridge with leftovers, this dish delivers warmth and flavor in every slice.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

A hearty casserole combining classic meatloaf with creamy macaroni and cheese baked into one comforting dish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole, Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef
Mac and Cheese
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Saucepan
  • Baking dish

Method
 

  1. Prepare and bake meatloaf layer.
  2. Cook macaroni and prepare cheese sauce.
  3. Layer mac and cheese over meatloaf.
  4. Bake until bubbly and golden.

Notes

Let rest before slicing for best results.

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