Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Best of Both Worlds 🥩🧀🍽️
When classic meatloaf meets creamy mac and cheese, you get a Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole — a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines two family favorites into one hearty bake. The savory, juicy meatloaf base is topped with ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or when you just need some extra comfort on your plate.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Layer:
1½ pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
½ cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup ketchup (optional for added moisture and flavor)
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk (preferably whole or 2%)
2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
🔪 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan.
Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and ketchup (if using) until just combined.
Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a flat layer.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatloaf layer is just cooked through. Carefully drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the meatloaf layer bakes, cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheese, mustard powder (if using), and salt/pepper to taste until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the meatloaf base.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake to Finish
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is slightly golden.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
Serve with a side of green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp salad.
A drizzle of BBQ sauce or hot sauce on top adds a fun twist.
Great for meal prep — slices reheat beautifully!
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.
Reheat: Bake at 350°F until hot, or microwave individual portions.
🧑🍳 Tips for Success
Don’t overmix the meatloaf to keep it tender.
For extra flavor, add shredded cheese or chopped herbs to the meatloaf layer.
Want a crunch? Top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs before the final bake.
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table — rich, creamy, and packed with down-home goodness.