This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mash-up! A juicy, flavorful meatloaf forms the perfect base, topped with a rich, creamy mac and cheese layer that’s baked to golden perfection. The combination of savory ground beef and cheesy pasta creates a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also brings together two classic favorites into one incredible bite. Serve it with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1 egg
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1/4 cup milk
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 cup ketchup
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2 cups elbow macaroni
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup whole milk
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon flour
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1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
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In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
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Press the meat mixture evenly into the greased baking dish and spread ketchup over the top.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is mostly cooked through.
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Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
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In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, then whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
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Slowly whisk in milk, then add mustard powder, paprika, and salt. Stir until thickened.
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Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
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Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
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Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the mac and cheese over the top.
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Bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
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Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Few dishes can rival the comforting embrace of a warm, cheesy, and meaty casserole. The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a perfect combination of two beloved classics—juicy, flavorful meatloaf and creamy, cheesy macaroni. This dish brings the best of both worlds together in a single bite, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, and cozy nights in.
Why This Casserole Stands Out
This dish isn’t just another casserole; it’s a game-changer. The bottom layer consists of a well-seasoned, tender meatloaf that acts as the hearty foundation of the dish. On top of it, you have a layer of creamy, homemade mac and cheese that adds a rich and gooey texture. The combination of textures and flavors ensures that each bite is a delicious experience, with the savory and cheesy elements complementing each other perfectly.
Unlike traditional meatloaf, which is often served with mashed potatoes or a simple side dish, this casserole brings a whole new dimension to the table. Instead of serving mac and cheese separately, it’s baked directly on top of the meatloaf, allowing the flavors to meld together as they cook. The result? A mouthwatering, cheesy, and hearty dish that satisfies every comfort food craving.
A Perfect Dish for Family Gatherings
When it comes to feeding a crowd, few meals are as effective as a baked casserole. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just meal prepping for the week, this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is an excellent choice. It’s filling, budget-friendly, and easy to prepare in advance.
Casseroles are well known for their ability to feed multiple people without requiring complex preparation or expensive ingredients. Since this recipe combines both meat and pasta, you won’t need to worry about preparing a separate main course and side dish—it’s all included in one pan! Plus, this dish is kid-friendly, making it a great way to introduce little ones to hearty home-cooked meals.
Customizing Your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. While the classic version is already packed with flavor, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
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Change Up the Cheese – While cheddar is a go-to choice for mac and cheese, you can mix in mozzarella, gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a hint of spice. A blend of different cheeses can create a richer and more complex flavor.
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Add a Crunchy Topping – If you want an extra layer of texture, sprinkle some breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even crispy fried onions over the top before baking. This adds a satisfying crunch to the gooey mac and cheese.
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Make It Spicy – For those who enjoy a little heat, adding diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture can elevate the dish.
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Use Different Meats – While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of pork and beef for a different flavor profile.
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Vegetable Boost – Adding finely chopped onions, bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach into the meatloaf mixture can increase its nutritional value without compromising taste.
These small modifications allow you to create a dish that best fits your preferences while maintaining the heartwarming essence of the original recipe.
Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these expert tips:
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Use Lean Ground Beef – A leaner cut of beef (such as 85/15 or 90/10) helps reduce excess grease while still keeping the meatloaf juicy. If using fattier meat, consider draining excess fat before adding the mac and cheese layer.
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Don’t Overmix the Meatloaf – When combining the ingredients for the meatloaf, mix them until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough texture instead of a tender and moist meatloaf.
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Undercook the Pasta Slightly – Since the macaroni will continue cooking in the oven, it’s best to cook it al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy by the time the casserole is fully baked.
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Let It Rest Before Serving – Allow the casserole to sit for about 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice without falling apart.
Pairing Suggestions
Although this casserole is a complete meal on its own, serving it with complementary sides can elevate the dining experience. Some great pairings include:
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Steamed Vegetables – A side of broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts balances out the richness of the casserole.
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Crisp Salad – A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the heaviness of the cheese and meat.
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Garlic Bread – If you’re a carb lover, adding a slice of warm garlic bread is a delicious way to enjoy every last bit of cheesy goodness.
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Pickles or Coleslaw – The acidity from pickles or a vinegar-based coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy, savory dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you enjoy comfort food, this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is bound to become a favorite in your home. It combines two beloved dishes into one, saving time and effort in the kitchen while delivering an irresistible, satisfying meal. Whether you’re a fan of classic baked casseroles or just looking for a new way to enjoy meatloaf, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Conclusion
The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food fusion, bringing together the best aspects of two classic dishes. Its rich, cheesy, and meaty flavors make it a perfect meal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends. The versatility of the recipe allows for easy customization, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.
By following a few key tips—such as using lean meat, slightly undercooking the pasta, and allowing the casserole to rest before serving—you can ensure a perfect result every time. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you have a complete meal that is both hearty and satisfying.
If you’re looking for a dish that is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults, this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is an excellent choice. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular feature on your dinner table!