Quick & Hearty Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Comfort food reaches new heights with this mac and cheese meatloaf casserole that combines two classic favorites into one mouthwatering dish.

Hearty ground beef meets creamy pasta in a delectable blend of flavors and textures.

Layers of seasoned meat and cheesy macaroni create a satisfying meal that draws everyone to the table.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of savory and rich ingredients.

Home cooks will love how simple this recipe comes together with just a few basic components.

The ultimate one-pan dinner delivers warmth and nostalgia in every forkful.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Highlights

Reimagine Comfort Food: A twist on classic dishes that brings family together with rich, hearty flavors.

Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like ground turkey or add extra spices to match your taste preferences without complicated techniques.

One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with a single baking dish that transforms two beloved recipes into a crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknight dinners.

Kid-Approved Fusion: Combines two all-time favorite foods – mac and cheese and meatloaf – guaranteeing smiles around the dinner table with familiar, delicious ingredients.

Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Must-Have Ingredients

• Ground Beef: A lean protein that forms the hearty foundation of the casserole.
• Breadcrumbs: Provides texture and helps bind the meat mixture together.
• Egg: Acts as a binding agent to hold the meatloaf ingredients cohesively.

• Ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness and moisture to the meat base.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the savory depth of the meat flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Contributes a robust and aromatic seasoning.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance overall taste.

• Macaroni Pasta: The classic pasta that creates the creamy mac and cheese layer.
• Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a smooth cheese sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce for a creamy consistency.
• Milk: Creates the liquid base for the smooth cheese sauce.
• Mustard Powder: Adds a subtle tangy undertone to the cheese sauce.
• Paprika: Offers a mild smoky flavor and warm color to the dish.
• Cheese: Delivers the signature creamy and rich mac and cheese flavor.

Making Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350°F, creating the perfect environment for our delicious comfort food adventure.

Step 2: Create the Meaty Foundation

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9×13 baking dish, crafting a solid meatloaf base that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Step 3: Kickstart the Meaty Cooking

Slide the meatloaf into the oven and let it cook for 25-30 minutes until it’s almost fully done.

The meat should look mostly cooked but not completely finished.

Step 4: Boil the Pasta Perfection

While the meat is sizzling, cook your macaroni following the package guidelines.

Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready for its cheesy destiny.

Step 5: Whip Up the Cheese Sauce Magic

In a saucepan, start by melting butter, then whisk in flour.

Slowly pour in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens beautifully.

• Mustard powder
• Paprika
• Cheese

Keep stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and irresistibly creamy.

Step 6: Merge Pasta and Cheese

Fold the cooked macaroni into the luscious cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle gets a perfect cheese coating.

Step 7: Layer the Cheesy Goodness

Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf, creating a mouthwatering layer of comfort.

Step 8: Final Bake to Perfection

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes.

Look for a bubbly, golden-topped masterpiece that’ll have everyone rushing to the dinner table.

Tips For Creamy Mac And Cheese Meatloaf

• Shake off excess water completely to prevent watery cheese sauce and maintain the right consistency.
• Mix in finely chopped onions or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper, richer meat flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Blend sharp cheddar with mild varieties like monterey jack for a complex, creamy cheese sauce that melts smoothly.
• Let meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes after initial baking to absorb juices and prevent soggy mac and cheese topping.
• Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers without compromising texture.

Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Twists To Try

• Vegetarian Comfort: Replace ground beef with lentils, black beans, or plant-based meat alternatives for a hearty meatless version that maintains the casserole's rich texture.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers and use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Spicy Southwestern Style: Add diced jalapeños, green chiles, and swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to create a zesty, southwestern-inspired mac and cheese meatloaf casserole with a kick.
• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of macaroni and replace breadcrumbs with almond flour to transform the recipe into a keto-friendly meal that's low in carbohydrates.

Serving Ideas For Mac And Cheese Meatloaf

• Comfort Plate Partner: Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the rich, hearty casserole and add fresh texture.
• Veggie Boost Companion: Roasted broccoli or steamed green beans provide a nutritious side that cuts through the dish's creaminess.
• Tangy Topping Twist: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a bright, herbal garnish that adds color and subtle flavor.
• Bread Pairing Perfection: Warm garlic bread or crusty french rolls make an excellent accompaniment to soak up the delicious cheese sauce.

Storage Tips For Mac And Cheese Meatloaf

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odor absorption.
• Wrap individual portions or the entire casserole in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date to track storage time.
• Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Assemble the dish and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

• Can I use different types of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or a meat blend work great. Just ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F.

• What cheese works best for the sauce?

Sharp cheddar provides the most flavor, but you can mix cheeses like monterey jack or gruyere for a more complex taste. Avoid soft cheeses that won’t melt well.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use lean ground meat, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and low-fat milk. Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

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4.9 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comfort meets creativity in this mac and cheese meatloaf casserole, blending hearty ground beef with creamy pasta perfection. Rich layers of cheesy goodness and savory meat promise a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatloaf Layer (Protein and Base):

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 small yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Mac and Cheese Layer (Dairy and Pasta):

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)

Topping:

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the meat mixture by combining ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
2. Transfer the meat mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish, carefully pressing and shaping it into an even layer.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the meatloaf base for approximately 25-30 minutes until the meat is nearly fully cooked.
4. During the meatloaf baking time, cook macaroni in boiling water according to package directions, then drain thoroughly.
5. Create a creamy cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, whisking in flour to create a roux, and gradually incorporating milk while stirring continuously.
6. Enhance the cheese sauce with mustard powder and paprika, then gradually blend in shredded cheese until the mixture becomes smooth and fully incorporated.
7. Fold the cooked macaroni into the prepared cheese sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is evenly coated.
8. Remove the partially cooked meatloaf from the oven and spread the mac and cheese mixture uniformly across the surface.
9. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the edges become crispy and bubbly.

Notes

• Lean out the dish by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter protein option.
• Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to the meatloaf mixture for increased nutrition and flavor complexity.
• Create a gluten-free version by substituting breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
• Keep the cheese sauce creamy by using room temperature milk and gradually whisking to prevent lumps from forming.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 537 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 556 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 33 g
• Cholesterol: 125 mg