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Mac & Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dinner that brings two family favorites together in one cozy, oven-baked dish. A savory meatloaf base is topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni and baked until bubbly and irresistible. This hearty casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or when you need a filling meal everyone will love. Easy to slice, simple to serve, and even better as leftovers, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Comforting, satisfying, and totally crave-worthy.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients
  • Savory Meatloaf Base
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ cup finely chopped onion
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Creamy Mac Layer
  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Homemade Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder

Method
 

1. Heat Things Up

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go.

    2. Build the Meatloaf Layer

    Grab a large bowl and add the ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix just until everything comes together—don’t overwork it. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased baking dish.

      3. First Bake

      Slide the dish into the oven and bake the meatloaf layer for 20 minutes to help it firm up.

        4. Cook the Pasta

        While the meatloaf bakes, boil the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

          5. Make the Cheese Sauce

          In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute until smooth. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly, and cook until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard. Stir in 1½ cups of the cheese until melted and silky.

            6. Assemble the Casserole

            Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Spread this cheesy pasta over the partially baked meatloaf. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.

              7. Final Bake

              Return the dish to the oven and bake for 25 more minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.

                Notes

                How to Serve

                • Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives for color and freshness
                • Side salads: Caesar or simple garden salad cuts through the richness
                • Bread options: Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are perfect for scooping
                • Extra cheese: Add parmesan or mozzarella right before serving for bonus melt

                Common Mistakes to Avoid

                • Using ultra-lean meat: It can dry out—choose ground beef with some fat
                • Overcooking pasta: Slightly firm pasta holds up better in the oven
                • Under-seasoning: Flavor both layers generously
                • Skipping rest time: Let the casserole sit 5–10 minutes before slicing
                • Pre-shredded cheese: Freshly shredded melts smoother and creamier

                Storage & Reheating

                Refrigerate

                Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 5 days.

                Freeze

                Divide into portions, wrap well, and freeze for 2–3 months. Label with dates.

                Reheat

                • Oven: 350°F, covered, about 20 minutes
                • Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals
                • Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet, stirring often

                FAQs

                Can I swap the meat?
                 Yes! Ground turkey or lamb works well—just avoid very lean cuts.
                Is there a vegetarian option?
                 Absolutely. Use plant-based ground meat and swap milk with veggie-friendly alternatives.
                Can I add veggies?
                 Go for it. Spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms blend in nicely.
                What cheeses work best?
                 Cheddar is classic, but gouda, mozzarella, or a blend adds depth.

                Final Thoughts

                This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is pure comfort baked into one dish. It’s hearty, customizable, and perfect for busy nights or relaxed family dinners. Whether you stick to the classic version or put your own spin on it, this casserole delivers big flavor with minimal fuss—and that’s always a win. 🧀🍽️