Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup

If you’re craving the perfect cozy dinner that blends classic home-style flavors, this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is about to become your new family favorite. Imagine a juicy, savory meatloaf base topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni — baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s comfort food on steroids!

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for the week, this casserole delivers nostalgic flavor with a fun twist. Let’s dive into the recipe and all the tips you need to make this dish unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

•  Two iconic comfort foods in one dish

•  Easy ingredients — pantry and fridge staples

•  Family-friendly and picky-eater approved

•  Great for meal prep and leftovers

•  Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Base

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or beef/pork blend)

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup finely chopped onion

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp ketchup or BBQ sauce

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Mac and Cheese Layer

• 8 oz elbow macaroni

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt & pepper to taste

Topping (Optional)

• ½ cup shredded cheese

• ¼ cup breadcrumbs

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.

2. Make the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently — over-mixing can make meatloaf dense.

3. Bake the Base

Press mixture evenly into your baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.

4. Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, boil macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.

5. Make the Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thick.
Stir in the cheese and seasonings.

6. Assemble

Mix pasta with cheese sauce.
Spoon mac and cheese over the partially baked meatloaf.
Add extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top if desired.

7. Final Bake

Bake 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Broil 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness if you like.

8. Rest

Let sit 10 minutes before slicing — this helps layers set.

Tips & Variations

• Swap cheddar for gouda, Monterey jack, or a cheese blend

• Add peas or chopped broccoli to the mac layer for veggies

• Spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce

• Try ground turkey for a lighter version

• Use BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole with:

• Steamed green beans

• Roasted broccoli

• Apple slaw

• A fresh garden salad

Or go full comfort mode with mashed potatoes and garlic bread — no judgment here!

Storage & Reheating

To reheat: Cover and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in portions.

 Final Thoughts

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole brings the nostalgia of Sunday supper with a fun and modern twist. It’s hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to disappear fast — so don’t be surprised if everyone comes back for seconds.

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