Heavenly Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe for Dinner

Mac and cheese meatloaf casserole brings comfort food to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Crispy edges and melty centers create an irresistible combination that screams home cooking.

Hearty ground beef mingles with creamy pasta in a way that satisfies deep hunger pangs.

Cheese lovers will appreciate the extra layer of gooey goodness blanketing each savory bite.

Childhood memories of classic dishes merge with modern culinary creativity in this crowd-pleasing recipe.

Weeknight dinners just got an upgrade with this simple yet impressive meal.

Grab a fork and prepare to experience pure culinary magic that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf: Store the Rest

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the casserole fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
• Warm individual portions at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
• Heat single servings on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming and prevent cold spots.

Mac & Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Matches

• Pair Robust Red Wine: Select a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot that cuts through the rich, creamy meatloaf and complements its hearty meat flavors.
• Serve Crisp Green Salad: Create a tangy mixed green salad with vinaigrette dressing to balance the heavy, cheesy casserole and provide refreshing contrast.
• Add Roasted Vegetable Side: Prepare garlic-seasoned roasted broccoli or asparagus to introduce extra nutrition and provide a light, crunchy accompaniment that enhances the main dish.
• Enjoy Cold Beer Pairing: Choose a medium-bodied amber ale or lager that cuts through the richness of mac and cheese meatloaf while providing a refreshing flavor complement.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Bake Creative Ideas

• Gluten-Free Comfort: Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Use gluten-free macaroni and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap
• Low-Carb Transformation: Replace macaroni with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and reduce milk quantity to create a lower-carbohydrate friendly dish.
• Protein-Packed Edition: Add extra protein by mixing in cottage cheese with the regular cheese sauce. Incorporate diced lean chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter protein option.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.

• Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your cheese sauce ingredients are gluten-free.

• What cheese works best for the sauce?

Cheddar is classic, but you can also use a blend of cheddar and monterey jack or gruyere for extra richness.

• How can I prevent the meatloaf from becoming dry?

Mix in egg and milk, and avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature reaches 160°F for perfect moisture.

Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Delivers Double Comfort

Comfort Food Champion: Combines two beloved classics – mac and cheese and meatloaf – into one epic, satisfying dish that delivers maximum flavor and nostalgia.

Quick Weeknight Winner: Requires minimal prep time, uses simple ingredients, and delivers a complete meal in under an hour, perfect for busy families seeking delicious dinner solutions.

Kid-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Blends protein-packed meatloaf with creamy mac and cheese, ensuring even picky eaters will clean their plates with enthusiasm and ask for seconds.

Budget-Friendly Feast: Utilizes affordable ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and cheese, creating a hearty meal that feeds multiple people without breaking the bank.

Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole List

• Ground Beef: Hearty meat that provides the main protein and rich flavor for the meatloaf.
• Egg: Helps bind the meatloaf ingredients together and adds moisture.
• Breadcrumbs: Creates a tender texture and helps hold the meatloaf together.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Mustard Powder: Adds a subtle tangy and sharp undertone to the dish.
• Garlic Powder: Provides a warm, aromatic background flavor.

• Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta shape that perfectly captures the cheese sauce.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and creamy cheese that creates a rich, melty texture.
• Butter: Helps create a smooth base for the cheese sauce and adds richness.
• Flour: Thickens the cheese sauce and creates a smooth consistency.
• Milk (for cheese sauce): Creates a creamy base for the cheese sauce.

Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Cooking Steps

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Space

Set your oven to a cozy 350°F, preparing it for the delicious comfort meal ahead.

Step 2: Create the Meaty Base

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Milk
• Salt
• Pepper

Blend these ingredients until they form a perfect meaty mixture.

Step 3: Shape the Hearty Foundation

Press the meat mixture into a greased baking dish, creating a solid base for your casserole.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Goodness

Boil the macaroni according to package directions.

Once done, drain and set aside, ready for cheesy transformation.

Step 5: Craft the Velvety Cheese Sauce

• Melt butter
• Sprinkle in flour
• Whisk continuously

Gradually introduce milk, mustard powder, and garlic powder, stirring until the sauce thickens beautifully.

Step 6: Blend Cheese Magic

Stir in cheese until it melts into a smooth, irresistible sauce that screams comfort food.

Step 7: Unite Pasta and Cheese

Lovingly combine the cooked macaroni with the heavenly cheese sauce, creating a creamy masterpiece.

Step 8: Layer the Casserole

Spread the mac and cheese mixture over the meatloaf base, creating a delightful two-layer wonder.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven.

Bake for 35-40 minutes until the meatloaf is fully cooked and the top turns a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 10: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes, letting the flavors mingle and settle before serving up this comfort food triumph.

How To Pull Off A Meatloaf And Mac Bake Everyone Will Love

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option that keeps the dish lighter and healthier.
• Mix in grated onion or additional milk to keep the meatloaf moist and tender, ensuring a juicy texture throughout.
• Shred cheese directly from a block for smoother melting and better flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
• Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers to make the recipe celiac-friendly.
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika to the meatloaf mixture for an extra layer of rich, complex taste.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Comfort meets indulgence in this mac and cheese meatloaf casserole, blending classic American flavors into one hearty dish. Creamy pasta, savory ground beef, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1 lb (454 g) ground beef
• 1 egg
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Dry Ingredients:

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

Liquids and Pasta:

• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups milk (for cheese sauce)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to a moderate temperature of 350°F (175°C), preparing a greased baking dish for the upcoming culinary creation.
2. Combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, whisking in a beaten egg and milk, then season with salt and pepper to create a well-mixed meatloaf base.
3. Carefully press the seasoned meat mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even, compact layer.
4. Cook macaroni in boiling water until perfectly al dente, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
5. Craft a velvety cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, whisking in flour to form a smooth roux.
6. Gradually introduce milk to the roux, incorporating mustard and garlic powders while continuously stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes luxuriously creamy.
7. Fold in shredded cheese, stirring until completely melted and the sauce reaches a silky consistency.
8. Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is lavishly coated.
9. Spread the cheesy macaroni mixture evenly over the prepared meatloaf, creating an appetizing two-layer casserole.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, watching for a golden-brown top and ensuring the meatloaf is cooked completely through.
11. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven, enabling the layers to set and flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter, healthier protein option that keeps the dish versatile and diet-friendly.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make this casserole completely gluten-free without compromising flavor or texture.
• Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to the meatloaf mixture for increased nutritional value and a hidden veggie boost.
• Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, gruyère, or smoked gouda to elevate the mac and cheese flavor profile and create a more complex taste experience.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg