Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

By Muhammad Faizan

Description

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort-food mash-up—creamy, cheesy macaroni layered over a savory, tender meatloaf base. It combines the nostalgic flavors of classic meatloaf with the indulgent creaminess of macaroni and cheese, all baked together into one cozy, crowd-pleasing dish. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a hearty weekend meal.

Servings

Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Layer

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 medium onion, finely diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ cup milk

  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp dried parsley

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping, optional)

For the Mac and Cheese Layer

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni

  • 3 tbsp butter

  • 3 tbsp flour

  • 2 cups milk

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

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)

  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Base

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, milk, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, pepper, and ketchup.

  3. Mix gently until combined—avoid overmixing so the meatloaf stays tender.

  4. Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 casserole dish.

  5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is mostly cooked through.

2. Make the Mac and Cheese

  1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.

  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

  3. Add flour to make a roux; cook 1–2 minutes, stirring.

  4. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth; cook until thickened.

  5. Stir in cheddar cheese, paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.

  6. Add cooked macaroni and stir to coat.

3. Assemble & Bake

  1. Remove meatloaf layer from oven.

  2. Spread the macaroni and cheese evenly over the top.

  3. Sprinkle with additional cheddar cheese if desired.

  4. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbly.

  5. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting and serving.

Notes

  • You can replace ground beef with ground turkey or half beef/half pork.

  • Add a thin layer of ketchup or BBQ sauce over the meatloaf before adding mac and cheese for extra moisture and flavor.

  • Sharp cheddar creates the best cheesy punch, but a blend of cheddar + Monterey Jack melts beautifully.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t overmix the meat—it becomes tough.

  • Drain grease if your meat is very fatty before adding the macaroni layer.

  • Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce (pre-shredded can be grainy).

  • Let it rest so the layers hold together when sliced.

  • Add extra seasonings (smoked paprika, onion powder) for deeper flavor.

Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 of 8)

Note: Approximate values.

  • Calories: 520

  • Protein: 32g

  • Carbohydrates: 34g

  • Fat: 28g

  • Saturated Fat: 13g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sodium: 780mg

Health Benefits

While this is a comfort dish, it still offers:

  • High protein from beef and cheese, supporting muscle maintenance

  • Calcium from dairy, supporting bone health

  • Customizable leaner versions (ground turkey + reduced-fat cheese)

  • Satisfying and filling, helping prevent overeating

Q&A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble both layers, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake 10 extra minutes.

Q: Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. Freeze either fully baked or unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Q: Can I use boxed mac and cheese?

Yes—use 2 boxes prepared according to package instructions. It’s a great shortcut.

Q: What sides go well with it?

Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, salad, or garlic bread.

Q: Can I make it spicier?

Add hot sauce to the cheese sauce or mix chili flakes into the meatloaf.

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