If you’re a fan of comfort food, you’re in for a treat! This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole recipe brings together two all-time favorite dishes—savory meatloaf and creamy mac and cheese—into one irresistible meal. It’s the perfect dish for a family dinner, potluck, or when you’re craving something extra hearty and indulgent. Whether you're a home cook looking to spice up your meal plan or a beginner seeking an easy-to-follow recipe, this guide will help you craft a dish that’s guaranteed to impress. Read on to discover how you can make this ultimate comfort food combo that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!

What Is Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a hybrid dish that combines two classic comfort foods: traditional meatloaf and creamy macaroni and cheese. The bottom layer consists of seasoned ground beef, similar to what you’d use in a traditional meatloaf, while the top layer features rich and cheesy macaroni. When baked together, these two elements create a savory, cheesy, and deliciously filling casserole that’s hard to resist. It’s the best of both worlds, offering the heartiness of meatloaf with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese.
Ingredients List for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to make the meatloaf base and mac and cheese topping:
Meatloaf Layer Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds of ground beef (preferably 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy results)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional for extra flavor)
Mac and Cheese Layer Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar works best)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, but adds a nice kick)
Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is its versatility. Here are some substitution and variation ideas if you want to customize the recipe to your liking:
- Ground meat options: Instead of ground beef, try ground turkey, pork, or a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor.
- Vegetarian version: Replace the meatloaf layer with a plant-based meat alternative or a mix of lentils and vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly casserole.
- Cheese choices: Swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or gouda for a different cheese flavor in your mac and cheese layer.
- Add veggies: Toss in some finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini, to the meatloaf layer for added nutrition.
- Bacon lovers: Add some cooked and crumbled bacon to either the meatloaf or the mac and cheese layer for an extra savory kick.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to start cooking? Follow these steps to make your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole from scratch.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish to ensure your layers don’t stick.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup (if using), Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until well combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Once the mixture is ready, press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared casserole dish to form the meatloaf base.
Step 3: Make the Mac and Cheese Layer
- While the meatloaf base is setting, cook your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta in creamy goodness.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Once both layers are ready, spoon the mac and cheese over the meatloaf base, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the meatloaf is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 160°F/70°C) and the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to set before slicing into it. This will help the layers hold together when serving.
How to Cook Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail at each stage to ensure that both the meatloaf and mac and cheese components turn out perfectly. The key is balancing flavors and textures, so neither element overpowers the other. Here’s a quick guide:
- Start with the Meatloaf: Preparing the meatloaf base first ensures that the flavors have time to meld together during baking. Make sure to season the meat well.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook your macaroni just until al dente. It will cook a little more in the oven, and you want it to maintain its texture.
- Perfecting the Cheese Sauce: A good roux is the foundation of your cheese sauce. Make sure the flour and butter cook long enough to avoid a grainy texture, and don’t rush the milk-thickening process.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Meatloaf: Overworking the ground beef mixture can lead to a tough, dense meatloaf. Mix just until combined.
- Soggy Macaroni: Avoid overcooking the pasta before baking. Al dente is key.
- Greasy Casserole: If using higher-fat ground beef, consider draining some of the fat after cooking the meatloaf layer.
Serving and Presentation Tips
This dish is a showstopper all on its own, but you can make it even more special with the right presentation. Here are some tips to serve it in style:
How to Serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Cut the casserole into neat squares to showcase the layers of meatloaf and creamy mac and cheese.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Add a dollop of ketchup or BBQ sauce on the side for an extra flavor boost.
Presentation Ideas for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Garnish the top with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation at dinner parties.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the mac and cheese layer before baking.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips
- Add extra cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top of the casserole before baking.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready.
- Freezing tips: This casserole freezes well. Simply cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use boxed mac and cheese for the topping?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use boxed mac and cheese as a substitute for homemade. Just prepare it according to the package instructions and use it as the top layer.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatloaf layer and use gluten-free pasta and flour in the cheese sauce.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Conclusion
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup that will quickly become a family favorite. It’s rich, savory, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. With its hearty meatloaf base and creamy mac and cheese topping, this dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Give it a try, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite ingredients!
PrintMac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
This mac and cheese meatloaf casserole recipe combines savory beef with creamy mac and cheese, creating the ultimate comfort food. Made with simple ingredients like ground beef, elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs, this easy casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is packed with flavor and ready in under an hour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minute
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Diabetic
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup ketchup (optional for topping)
- ¼ cup diced onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, salt, and pepper.
- Press the meat mixture into the bottom of a greased casserole dish to form a meatloaf layer.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- While baking, mix cooked macaroni, cheese, and milk in a separate bowl.
- Spread the mac and cheese mixture over the partially cooked meatloaf.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional: Spread ketchup on top before the final bake.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a layer of ketchup or barbecue sauce on top of the meatloaf before adding the mac and cheese.
- Use any type of pasta or cheese you prefer.
- To make this casserole ahead of time, assemble it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750 mg
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