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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Category: Indulge in Timeless American Comforts

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole features a juicy meatloaf base topped with rich, creamy macaroni and sharp cheddar cheese. The beef is combined with onion, breadcrumbs, and milk for a tender foundation, while the cheese sauce brings extra flavor thanks to paprika and dry mustard. After baking, the golden, bubbly top adds inviting texture. Serve this satisfying dish for family dinners or whenever you crave a hearty, comforting meal. Consider pairing with a crisp salad or green vegetables for a balanced plate and refrigerate leftovers for easy meals during the week.

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Updated on Mon, 02 Jun 2025 21:55:35 GMT
A plate of mac and cheese meatloaf casserole. Save
A plate of mac and cheese meatloaf casserole. | krispyrecipes.com

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate mashup comfort food. You get a hearty base of classic meatloaf topped with luxuriously creamy homemade macaroni and cheese, all baked into one bubbling casserole that is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at family dinners or after a long day.

I first made this for a Sunday family movie night and everyone had seconds. Now it is our go-to when we want something cozy but just a little bit special.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: delivers the foundation and rich savoriness for the bottom layer
  • Onion: brings a sweet and aromatic flavor make sure to finely dice for best texture
  • Breadcrumbs: help the meatloaf hold together choose plain or seasoned depending on your taste
  • Egg: binds everything into a tender but sliceable loaf use a fresh large egg
  • Milk: adds moisture and tenderness to the meatloaf and creamy cheese sauce opt for whole milk for richness
  • Salt and black pepper: season every layer use kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
  • Elbow macaroni: holds the cheese sauce in every bite use a classic shape for best results
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: brings out bold cheesy taste grate your own for meltier sauce
  • Unsalted butter: is the base for the cheese sauce and keeps flavors balanced
  • All-purpose flour: thickens your cheese sauce avoid self-rising types for best texture
  • Paprika: adds a gentle smoky note to the mac and cheese
  • Dry mustard: sharpens and balances the cheese flavors look for good quality ground mustard

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking
Make the Meatloaf Layer:
In a large bowl combine ground beef onion breadcrumbs egg milk salt and pepper Mix gently until just combined taking care not to overwork for a tender texture
Shape and Parbake the Meat:
Firmly press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of your baking dish to form a uniform layer Bake for twenty minutes to set the base before adding macaroni
Boil the Macaroni:
While the meatloaf bakes cook elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water Stir occasionally until it is just al dente which ensures the pasta stays firm after baking Drain and set aside
Start the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan melt butter on medium heat Once melted whisk in flour and cook the roux for one minute Stir constantly for a smooth base without browning
Thicken the Sauce:
Slowly pour in milk while whisking evenly Cook and whisk for three to five minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon Stir in salt pepper paprika and dry mustard
Melt in the Cheese:
Add one and a half cups of the shredded cheddar into the saucepan Stir patiently until the cheese is melted fully and the sauce is smooth and glossy
Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:
Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce Mix gently to coat all pasta without breaking
Layer Mac and Cheese Over Meatloaf:
Spoon the cheesy macaroni evenly atop the meatloaf base in your baking dish Spread out gently for even coverage
Top with Extra Cheese and Bake:
Scatter the remaining cheddar evenly across the top Place back in the oven and bake for twenty five minutes until the top is golden and bubbly
Rest and Serve:
Allow the casserole to rest five to ten minutes before slicing This lets everything set up for clean servings
A fork is being used to serve a mac and cheese meatloaf casserole. Save
A fork is being used to serve a mac and cheese meatloaf casserole. | krispyrecipes.com

Cheddar is my favorite part for this recipe because its sharpness cuts through the richness of the meatloaf and brings everything together. I remember my youngest sneaking bites of the cheesy top before the casserole even hit the table and it always brings a smile when I serve this dish.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container inside the fridge for up to three days. For best results reheat casserole portions in a covered dish in the oven so the cheesy pasta stays creamy and does not dry out. You can freeze slices in sturdy freezer containers and reheat directly from frozen for an easy future meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken swaps easily for ground beef if you want a lighter casserole. Gluten free breadcrumbs and pasta work well but double check labels for any additives. For a switch in flavor blend in mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese with the cheddar for a melty stretch.

Serving Suggestions

I like to pair this casserole with green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a crisp side salad for contrast. Sliced pickles make a tangy sidekick and are always a hit with kids.

A casserole dish filled with mac and cheese and meatloaf. Save
A casserole dish filled with mac and cheese and meatloaf. | krispyrecipes.com

Cultural Context

Both macaroni and cheese and meatloaf are American comfort food classics that shine at potlucks and weeknight tables. This recipe brings them together in one dish a fun twist that always draws nostalgic smiles from anyone who grew up with these favorites.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the meatloaf layer tender?

Mix the ground beef just until combined with the other ingredients and avoid overworking it. The addition of milk, egg, and breadcrumbs also helps retain moisture for a softer texture.

→ Can I use different cheeses for the macaroni layer?

Yes, you can substitute part of the cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier cheese profile, or combine for extra depth of flavor.

→ What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

Fresh green vegetables like steamed broccoli or a simple salad add a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness, rounding out the meal.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in the oven to preserve texture and flavor.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

You can assemble the layers ahead and refrigerate before the final bake. Add a few extra minutes of baking if cold from the fridge.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Creamy macaroni and cheese layered over juicy meatloaf makes a satisfying and cozy main course.

Preparation Time
25 min
Cooking Time
45 min
Total Time
70 min

Recipe Category: Classic Comfort Foods

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine Type: American

Recipe Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Meatloaf Layer

01 450 g ground beef
02 75 g onion, finely diced
03 30 g breadcrumbs
04 1 large egg
05 60 ml milk
06 1 tsp salt
07 0.5 tsp black pepper

→ Mac and Cheese

08 200 g elbow macaroni, uncooked
09 200 g sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
10 28 g unsalted butter
11 16 g all-purpose flour
12 480 ml milk
13 0.5 tsp salt
14 0.25 tsp black pepper
15 0.5 tsp paprika
16 0.5 tsp dry mustard

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 175°C. Lightly grease a 23×33 cm baking dish.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just incorporated.

Step 03

Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a single layer. Bake for 20 minutes.

Step 04

While the meatloaf bakes, cook macaroni in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 05

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes. Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, and dry mustard.

Step 06

Add 150 g of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth. Gently fold in the cooked macaroni until evenly coated.

Step 07

Spread the macaroni and cheese mixture over the partially baked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle the remaining 50 g cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 08

Return the dish to the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden, melted, and bubbling.

Step 09

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Additional Notes

  1. For a flavor boost, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or ketchup to the meatloaf mixture.
  2. Half of the cheddar cheese can be replaced with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
  3. Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  4. Leftovers keep refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat well in the oven.

Required Tools

  • 23×33 cm baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Large spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board

Allergen Information

Make sure to review each ingredient for potential allergens, and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • Contains milk, eggs, wheat (gluten), and cheese (dairy).
  • Contains beef.
  • Check labels of store-bought breadcrumbs and cheese for additional allergens.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and aren't a substitute for medical advice.
  • Calories: 510
  • Fats: 27 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Proteins: 30 g