Here’s a hearty recipe for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole — combining creamy mac and cheese with savory meatloaf in one comforting dish.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Topping:
- Extra shredded cheese
- Breadcrumbs for a crispy top
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the meatloaf mixture
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and shredded cheddar.
- Mix gently until combined.
Step 2: Cook the macaroni
- Boil macaroni according to package instructions, then drain.
- Set aside.
Step 3: Make the cheese sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheddar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the casserole
- Spread half of the meatloaf mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer macaroni on top of the meatloaf.
- Pour cheese sauce over the macaroni.
- Spread remaining meatloaf mixture on top (or crumble it over).
- Optional: Sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, until meat is cooked through (internal temperature 160°F / 71°C) and top is golden.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Serve
- Slice into squares and serve warm.
- Pair with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture.
- Use different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variation.
- This casserole can be made ahead and baked the next day — just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
If you want, I can also give a faster version using boxed mac and cheese for a weeknight-friendly casserole.
