Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

When two comfort food classics collide, you get this indulgent and satisfying Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. With a hearty, seasoned meatloaf base and a creamy, cheesy macaroni layer on top, this baked dish brings all the flavor and nostalgia of your childhood favorites in one irresistible casserole.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Two-in-One Comfort – Meatloaf and mac & cheese in every bite.
Family-Friendly – Loved by both kids and adults.
Make-Ahead Magic – Great for meal prep or leftovers.
Cheesy & Creamy – Loaded with melty, gooey cheese.
Customizable – Add veggies, spice, or switch up the cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meatloaf Layer:

• 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mac and Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Topping:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or extra cheddar
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for pasta
• Medium saucepan
• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Base

1. In a bowl, mix ground meat, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, ketchup, mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes while you prepare the mac and cheese.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the macaroni in salted water until just al dente.
2. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly to form a roux.
3. Slowly pour in milk, whisking until smooth.
4. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Remove the meatloaf layer from the oven.
2. Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and spoon it evenly over the meatloaf base.
3. Top with extra shredded cheese if desired.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

1. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
2. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for a Perfect Casserole
Use Lean Ground Meat – Keeps the base moist without being greasy.
Shred Your Own Cheese – It melts better and gives a creamier texture.
Add Veggies – Mix in cooked peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
Spice It Up – Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper to the cheese sauce.
Prep Ahead – Assemble fully, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Serving Suggestions

• With a crisp green salad and vinaigrette
• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• A slice of garlic toast or dinner rolls
• Pickles or slaw for a tangy contrast
• A side of roasted sweet potatoes

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

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

Freezing:

• Cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

• Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in 60-second intervals until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make it gluten-free?
   Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
2. What other cheeses work well?
   Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Gouda, or a mix of cheeses.
3. Can I make this without eggs?
   Yes. Replace the egg in the meatloaf with 2 tbsp plain yogurt or a flax egg.
4. Is it spicy?
   Nope—but you can add spice easily with hot sauce or chili flakes.
5. Can I prep it a day ahead?
   Absolutely. Assemble the full casserole, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate family favorite—a mashup of two beloved dishes in one cozy, cheesy bake. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to bring smiles to the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole delivers every time.

Try it once, and it just might become your new comfort food obsession!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 of 6):
Calories: 540 | Protein: 32g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 32g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 640mg

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