Best Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Comfort food takes an unexpected twist with this mac and cheese meatloaf casserole that blends two classic favorites into one hearty dish.

Layers of creamy pasta intertwine with savory ground beef, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Cheesy goodness melts perfectly between rich meat sections, promising a dinner that satisfies deep hunger.

Crisp edges and soft centers make each bite a delightful experience for anyone craving something substantial.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this crowd-pleasing combination of familiar flavors.

Simple ingredients come together quickly, making preparation a breeze for busy cooks.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe and add it to your regular rotation of go-to meals.

Reasons to Make Mac And Cheese Meatloaf

• Tackle Two Comfort Foods: Combine classic mac and cheese with hearty meatloaf in one delicious casserole that satisfies multiple cravings simultaneously.
• Master One-Dish Meal Magic: Streamline dinner preparation by creating a complete protein-packed meal in a single baking dish, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
• Kid-Friendly Crowd Pleaser: Blend two beloved dishes that children adore, making mealtime exciting and ensuring everyone at the table enjoys their dinner without fuss.
• Customize with Ease: Personalize the recipe by adding extra spices, using different cheese varieties, or incorporating additional vegetables to suit individual taste preferences.

Ingredients for Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Ground Beef: A flavorful protein that creates the hearty foundation of the meatloaf.
• Egg: Helps bind the meat mixture together and provides structure.
• Breadcrumbs: Adds texture and helps keep the meatloaf moist and tender.

• Onion, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Provide depth of flavor and enhance the overall taste of the meatloaf.
• Ketchup: Adds sweetness and moisture to the meat mixture.

• Milk: Helps moisten the meatloaf and creates a creamy cheese sauce.
• Butter: Provides richness and helps create a smooth cheese sauce.
• Flour: Thickens the cheese sauce and creates a smooth consistency.
• Cheddar Cheese: Delivers a rich, tangy flavor and creates a creamy, melted topping.

• Macaroni: Serves as the classic pasta base for this comforting casserole.

Instructions for Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Meatloaf Base

In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, diced onion, ketchup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to blend all ingredients thoroughly until well mixed.

Step 2: Create Meatloaf Foundation

Press the meat mixture evenly into a greased 9×9 inch casserole dish, creating a smooth, compact layer that will serve as the base of your casserole.

Step 3: Initial Baking of Meatloaf

Place the casserole dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes, allowing the meatloaf to partially cook and develop initial flavor.

Step 4: Craft Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in milk, continuously stirring until the mixture thickens.

Add cheddar cheese and stir until completely melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Macaroni with Cheese Sauce

Toss cooked macaroni with the prepared cheese sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is generously coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 6: Layer and Finish Casserole

Spread the cheesy macaroni evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf in the casserole dish. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the dish to set and makes serving easier.

Cut into portions and enjoy your comforting mac and cheese meatloaf casserole.

Useful Cooking Tips for Mac And Cheese Meatloaf

• Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier dish.
• Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, monterey jack, or gruyere for unique flavor profiles.
• Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the meatloaf mixture for extra texture and subtle heat.
• Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for those with dietary restrictions.
• Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set and make slicing easier.

Flavor Twists on Mac And Cheese Meatloaf

• Turkey Meatloaf Mac and Cheese: Swap ground beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter protein option, maintaining the same creamy mac and cheese topping.
• Gluten-Free Comfort Casserole: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta, replace wheat flour with cornstarch for the cheese sauce to create a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegetarian Mac and Cheese Bake: Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternative, keeping the cheesy mac layer and classic casserole structure.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace macaroni with riced cauliflower, use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly take on the classic recipe.

Pairing Suggestions for Mac And Cheese Meatloaf

• Comfort Food Feast: Slice this hearty casserole into generous portions and serve alongside crisp green salad for a balanced meal that everyone will love.
• Crowd-Pleaser Plating: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions to add a pop of color and fresh flavor that makes the dish look restaurant-worthy.
• Family Dinner Delight: Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots to add nutrition and create a complete one-pan meal that satisfies hungry appetites.
• Leftover Magic: Store cooled portions in airtight containers for quick reheating, making perfect next-day lunch that tastes just as delicious as the first serving.

Storing Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Properly

• Refrigerate leftover mac and cheese meatloaf casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Store in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maintain optimal freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Adjust seasoning to enhance flavor since turkey is milder than beef.

• How do I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry?

Mix in milk and egg, which help keep the meat moist. Don’t overmix the meat mixture to maintain tenderness.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The combination of mac and cheese with meatloaf appeals to children. The cheesy topping makes it extra delicious for kids.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the meatloaf base and cheese sauce in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Hearty Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty mac and cheese meatloaf casserole brings comfort to dinner tables with its rich, cheesy layers. Melted cheddar, ground beef, and pasta combine for a satisfying meal that will delight you at first bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Protein:

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

Dry Ingredients and Seasonings:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons flour

Liquid and Produce Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup milk (for mac and cheese)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 1/4 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups cooked macaroni

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Instructions

1. Prepare the meatloaf base by thoroughly blending ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, milk, diced onion, ketchup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl until ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Transfer the meat mixture into a greased 9×9 inch casserole dish, pressing firmly to create an even layer covering the entire bottom surface.
3. Roast the meatloaf in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 minutes, allowing it to partially cook and develop initial flavor.
4. Meanwhile, craft a velvety cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, whisking in flour to create a roux, then gradually incorporating milk while continuously stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
5. Incorporate cheddar cheese into the sauce, stirring until completely melted and creating a rich, creamy consistency.
6. Coat the cooked macaroni thoroughly with the prepared cheese sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is generously covered.
7. Spread the cheese-coated macaroni evenly over the partially cooked meatloaf, creating a uniform top layer.
8. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to become golden, bubbly, and slightly crisp around the edges.
9. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to settle and make serving easier.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for healthier protein options and reduced fat content.
• Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to the meatloaf mixture for increased nutrition and flavor complexity.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure cheese is gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Create a crispy top by sprinkling breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the mac and cheese layer before final baking for added texture and crunch.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 594 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 130 mg