Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian (Note: If using plant-based meat substitute. See notes below.)
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup. Creamy, cheesy macaroni layered over a hearty meatloaf base makes this casserole a family favorite. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals.
🧾 Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Layer:
1 cup ketchup
1 ½ lbs ground beef (or plant-based meat for vegetarian option)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Topping:
½ cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and ½ cup of ketchup. Mix until well combined.
Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the remaining ½ cup of ketchup over the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Mac and Cheese
While the meatloaf is baking, cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk. Cook and stir until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Add cooked macaroni and stir to coat.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and carefully spread the mac and cheese over the top.
Step 5: Optional Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
Step 6: Bake Again
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Pair this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
🌱 Vegetarian Option
To make this casserole vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with your favorite plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetarian Worcestershire sauce.
❄️ Storage Tips
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
📌 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Combines two classic comfort foods
Customizable for vegetarians
Great for meal prep
Kid-friendly and hearty
🧠 Pro Tip
Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor.