Best Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe for Comfort Lovers

Comfort food lovers, mac and cheese meatloaf casserole brings a delightful twist to classic dinner favorites.

Cheesy goodness meets hearty protein in one spectacular dish.

Families adore this crowd-pleasing combination that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

Rich layers of pasta and seasoned ground beef create a mouthwatering experience that satisfies deep hunger.

Creamy cheese sauce binds everything together with irresistible warmth and flavor.

Kitchen novices and seasoned cooks alike can easily master this simple yet impressive recipe.

You will want seconds before finishing your first serving – guaranteed!

Keeping Your Casserole Fresh and Gooey

• Store leftovers in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
• Refrigerate mac and cheese meatloaf casserole for 3-4 days in sealed containers.
• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly as a leaner alternative. Just ensure it’s fully cooked to prevent any food safety issues.

• How do I prevent the mac and cheese from becoming dry?

Use full-fat milk and sour cream, and don’t overcook the final baking stage. Stir the cheese sauce until smooth to maintain moisture.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the combination of classic meatloaf and creamy mac and cheese. The familiar flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the meatloaf and mac and cheese layers separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve. Refrigerate components for up to 24 hours before final baking.

Mac & Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: Two Favorites in One

• Combine Comfort Classics: Merge two beloved dishes into one incredible, mouth-watering meal that satisfies everyone's cravings in a single pan.
• Simplify Dinner Prep: Create a complete main course with protein and pasta in one easy baking dish, reducing kitchen cleanup and cooking steps.
• Kid-Approved Crowd-Pleaser: Blend familiar flavors kids love – cheesy mac and meaty goodness – making mealtime exciting and stress-free for parents.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cooking equipment and streamline the entire meal preparation process, perfect for busy families seeking delicious and practical dinner solutions.

What You’ll Need for Mac & Cheese Meatloaf

• Ground Beef: A lean protein that provides the base for the hearty meatloaf component of the casserole.
• Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meat mixture and add texture to the meatloaf.
• Egg: Acts as a binding agent to hold the meatloaf ingredients together.

• Onion, Ketchup, Worcestershire Sauce, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Create a rich and savory flavor profile for the meatloaf base.

• Macaroni: The classic pasta that forms the foundation of the cheesy layer.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth cheese sauce.
• Milk, Sour Cream: Provide creaminess and depth to the cheese sauce.

• Cheddar Cheese: The primary cheese that gives the mac and cheese its classic flavor and creamy texture.
• Mustard Powder: Adds a subtle tangy kick to the cheese sauce.

Step-By-Step Mac & Cheese Meatloaf Guide

Step 1: Create Meatloaf Base

Mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Thoroughly blend all ingredients until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Dish

Press the meat mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a smooth, uniform layer.

Step 3: Initial Meatloaf Baking

Place the meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) and bake for 20 minutes to partially cook the meat layer.

Step 4: Craft Creamy Cheese Sauce

• Milk
• Sour cream
• Mustard powder

Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.

Step 5: Combine Mac And Cheese

Fold cooked macaroni into the prepared cheese sauce, ensuring every pasta piece is generously coated.

Step 6: Layer And Finish Casserole

Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over the partially baked meatloaf layer. Return to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the top turns golden and edges become bubbly.

Step 7: Rest And Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving, which helps the layers set and makes cutting easier.

Pro Chef’s Trick for Melty Mac & Cheese

• Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and create a healthier dish.
• Grate fresh cheddar cheese for a richer, more authentic flavor compared to pre-shredded options.
• Add extra seasonings like smoked paprika or dried herbs to enhance the overall taste profile of the casserole.
• Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it set and make slicing easier.
• Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter protein option without compromising taste.

Flavor Boosters for Your Casserole

• Vegetarian Mac and Cheese Loaf: Replace ground beef with crumbled plant-based meat or lentils, maintaining the same seasonings and texture.
• Gluten-Free Comfort Combo: Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers, and use gluten-free pasta.
• Spicy Southwest Version: Add diced jalapeños, chili powder, and pepper jack cheese to the meatloaf and mac and cheese layers for a zesty kick.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute macaroni with cauliflower rice or riced cauliflower, and use ground turkey for a lighter protein option.

Best Side Ideas for Mac & Cheese Meatloaf

• Comfort Food Feast: Perfect for family dinners when everyone craves a hearty meal that combines two classic favorites.
• Potluck Showstopper: Bring this crowd-pleasing dish to gatherings where you want to impress friends and make everyone's taste buds dance with joy.
• Meal Prep Champion: Slice and store individual portions in containers for easy weekday lunches that reheat beautifully and keep you satisfied.
• Game Day Delight: Serve alongside crisp green salad and garlic bread to create a complete meal that will score big with sports fans and hungry crowds.

Cheesy Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Mouthwatering mac and cheese meatloaf casserole combines comfort classics into one hearty dish. Cheesy layers and savory meat create a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 egg

Binding and Flavoring Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Dairy and Pasta Components:

• 2 cups cooked macaroni
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
2. Transfer the meat mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, pressing firmly to create an uniform layer covering the entire bottom surface.
3. Roast the meatloaf foundation at 350°F for 20 minutes, allowing initial cooking and flavor development.
4. Meanwhile, craft the cheese sauce by melting butter over medium heat in a saucepan, then gently incorporating milk, sour cream, and mustard powder.
5. Gradually fold shredded cheddar into the warm liquid mixture, stirring continuously until achieving a smooth, creamy consistency.
6. Fold cooked macaroni into the prepared cheese sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is thoroughly coated.
7. Remove partially cooked meatloaf from the oven and spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly across the surface, creating a seamless second layer.
8. Return the casserole to the oven, continuing to bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until the top turns golden and edges become bubbly.
9. Allow the casserole to rest for 5-7 minutes after removing from oven, enabling flavors to settle and making serving easier.

Notes

• Select lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a lighter dish.
• Mix ingredients gently to prevent dense, tough meatloaf texture.
• Customize mac and cheese layer by adding extra sharp cheddar or pepper jack for bold flavor.
• Consider gluten-free alternatives like almond flour breadcrumbs or gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 410 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg