Why You’ll Love This Casserole

If you’re searching for a dish that combines comfort food classics into one scrumptious meal, look no further than the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. This recipe takes the rich, creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese and pairs it with the hearty, savory flavors of meatloaf, creating an unforgettable dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. It’s a unique and satisfying meal that satisfies both young and old alike. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get your kids involved in the kitchen. Made with simple ingredients, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish, shaping it into a rectangular loaf in the center.
Bake the meatloaf: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes while you prepare the mac and cheese.
Cook the macaroni: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, and continue whisking until the sauce thickens, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Add the cheeses: Remove the pot from heat, and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if desired.
Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.
Layer: After the meatloaf has baked for 25 minutes, remove it from the oven and carefully pour the mac and cheese over the top.
Finish baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
Cool and serve: Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Variations: Feel free to customize this casserole by adding spices or herbs to the mac and cheese, like a dash of hot sauce for some heat or chopped spinach for added nutrition.
Meat Options: You can substitute ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage to give different flavor profiles.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda to switch up the flavors in the mac and cheese.
Freezing Instructions: This casserole can be made ahead of time and frozen. Assemble it and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, bake straight from the freezer at 350°F for about 1.5 hours or until warmed through.

Conclusion

The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is where nostalgia meets innovation. It brings together two beloved dishes that meld beautifully into a creamy, cheesy, and hearty casserole. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish promises to impress. You’ll not only enjoy making it but will savor every bite. Give this fabulous recipe a try, and prepare to have a new favorite in your culinary repertoire!

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

This unique dish combines creamy macaroni and cheese with hearty meatloaf for a comforting meal that's perfect for family dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1 5

Course Casserole, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

1 pound ground beef Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup milk Use whole or 2% milk for creaminess.
1 large egg Helps bind the meatloaf.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano

For the Mac and Cheese

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk Full-fat milk recommended.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar adds great flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese For extra creaminess.
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika Optional for flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, shaping it into a rectangular loaf.

Cooking

Bake the meatloaf for 25 minutes.
In a pot of boiling salted water, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat, stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until thickened.
Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth, then add salt, pepper, and paprika.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until coated.
Pour the mac and cheese over the meatloaf.
Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.