Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole – A Comfort Food Mashup You’ll Crave Again and Again!
It’s like two favorites—creamy mac & cheese and savory meatloaf—got married in one dreamy, cheesy, crowd-pleasing bake. This is dinner done right, with every forkful bringing pure comfort.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Base:
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons ketchup
For the Mac & Cheese:
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt & pepper to taste
Topping:
1/2 cup extra shredded cheddar
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Make Meatloaf Layer: In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, and seasonings. Press into a greased 9×9 or similar baking dish.
- Bake Meatloaf: Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour and whisk for 1 minute. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in shredded cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread mac and cheese over the partially baked meatloaf. Sprinkle with extra cheddar on top.
- Bake Again: Return to oven for another 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let cool slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Why You’ll Love It
- Combines two classics in one hearty dish
- Kid-approved and great for leftovers
- Easy to customize with bacon bits, diced tomatoes, or even jalapeños
Nutritional Snapshot (1 serving, approx.)
Calories: 520 | Protein: 28g | Carbs: 34g | Fat: 30g
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the full dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready.
Q: Can I use boxed mac and cheese?
Absolutely—just prepare according to the box and layer it over the meatloaf base.
Q: Any gluten-free tips?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta, and substitute cornstarch for flour in the sauce.
