Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup

Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s hearty, nostalgic, and guaranteed to leave everyone at the table happy? Look no further than this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole—the delicious, comforting combination of two family favorites: classic meatloaf and creamy macaroni and cheese.

This casserole takes everything you love about traditional meatloaf—savory, seasoned ground beef held together with crushed crackers—and tops it with an ultra-cheesy, rich mac and cheese layer that’s baked until bubbly and golden. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and absolutely perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or meal-prepping for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

There are casseroles, and then there’s this masterpiece. Here’s why this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole hits the spot every time:

  • ✅ Two comfort food favorites in one dish

  • ✅ Easy to make with pantry staples

  • ✅ Kid-approved and weeknight-friendly

  • ✅ Freezer-friendly and perfect for leftovers

  • ✅ Customizable based on your cheese and seasoning preferences

Whether you’re craving something cozy for Sunday dinner or looking to jazz up your typical meatloaf routine, this casserole will quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

🥩 For the Meatloaf Layer:

  • 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef

  • 15 Ritz-style crackers, crushed

  • 1 egg

  • ½ small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 2 tbsp ketchup

🧀 For the Mac and Cheese Layer:

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups milk

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

  • ½ tsp paprika (optional for color)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

  • Chopped parsley or green onion

  • Hot sauce or ketchup drizzle

How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and ketchup. Mix just until combined—don’t overwork the meat or it can become tough.

Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.

Bake the meatloaf layer for 25 minutes, until just cooked through. While it bakes, prepare the mac and cheese.

Step 2: Make the Mac and Cheese

Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth, then fold in the cooked pasta.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Spread the cheesy macaroni mixture evenly over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the top if desired.

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a full meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, try pairing it with:

  • Steamed broccoli or green beans

  • Simple garden salad

  • Roasted carrots or sweet potatoes

  • Garlic bread or dinner rolls

It also makes excellent leftovers—just reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick, comforting lunch.

Variations and Add-Ins

Customize your casserole with these tasty additions:

  • Add BBQ sauce to the meat mixture instead of ketchup for a smoky twist.

  • Spice it up by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mac and cheese.

  • Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack for bold flavor.

  • Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers and pasta.

  • Add veggies like finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meatloaf layer.

Meal Prep and Storage

  • To store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • To freeze: Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

  • To reheat: Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, or bake the whole dish at 300°F for 15–20 minutes.

Why This Combo Works

You might wonder: why pair mac and cheese with meatloaf?

Because it’s the best of both worlds. The savory, slightly sweet meatloaf bottom offers a solid, protein-packed base. The creamy mac and cheese provides a contrast in texture and taste that complements the meat beautifully. It’s cozy, nostalgic, and guaranteed to disappear fast.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t skip the egg in the meatloaf—it acts as a binder to hold everything together.

  • Shred your own cheese for better melt and creaminess (pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents).

  • Use whole milk or 2% for a rich mac and cheese sauce.

  • Broil the top for the last 1–2 minutes if you like a crisp cheesy crust.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the heartwarming duo of mac and cheese and meatloaf—except maybe when you bake them together. This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the definition of comfort, with gooey cheese, tender beef, and that nostalgic homemade feel you can only get from a family recipe.

It’s perfect for potlucks, Sunday dinners, or whenever you need a meal that warms both your belly and your soul.

📌 Recipe Recap

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

  • Total Time: ~50 minutes

  • Servings: 6–8

Main Ingredients: Ground beef, Ritz crackers, cheddar cheese, elbow pasta, milk, butter
Best For: Weeknight dinner, potlucks, freezer meals

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