introduction
Mac and cheese meatloaf casserole recipe is the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table fast. It’s rich, cheesy, meaty, and everything you love about comfort food rolled into one dish. In our house, it’s one of those meals that feels like a Sunday special—but it’s easy enough for a busy weeknight. I’ll guide you step by step through how to make this casserole, share tips, and show you how to customize it. Whether it’s for family dinner, leftovers, or a potluck, mac and cheese meatloaf casserole never disappoints. It’s simple, filling, and always a crowd favorite.
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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole – A Comfort Food Classic Reinvented
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is one of those meals that brings back childhood memories while making dinner easy and exciting. It’s rich, cheesy, and meaty—all in one baking dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd or stocking up on leftovers, this casserole blends two American favorites into one comforting, weeknight-ready recipe.
Ingredients
1½ lbs ground beef
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
Salt to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Press the meat mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni according to package directions.
5. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk and whisk until thick.
6. Add cheese and stir until fully melted. Season with salt and mustard powder if using.
7. Combine cheese sauce with pasta, then spread over partially baked meatloaf. Bake an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
You can prep the mac and cheese ahead of time and store separately.
Freeze individual slices for easy reheat-and-eat dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
meatloaf Mac and cheese casserole brings together two comfort food heroes from my childhood. Growing up in St. Francisville, Sunday dinners were serious business—my grandmother always had a bubbling pan of mac and cheese on the table next to her legendary meatloaf. They were never served as one, but I always mixed them on my plate. That’s where the idea for this dish was born.
Fast forward to today, living in New Orleans as a busy mom of two, I’ve taken those nostalgic favorites and merged them into one hearty meal. This mac and cheese meatloaf casserole is rich, cheesy, and layered with flavor—perfect for feeding a hungry crew on a weeknight. It saves time without sacrificing taste, and best of all, it brings smiles to the table every single time.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes meatloaf mac and cheese casserole recipe a family favorite? It’s simple: creamy macaroni tops a savory, juicy meatloaf base, and everything bakes together in one dish. The cheese gets bubbly and golden, the meat stays moist, and the whole thing just works.
You can prep it ahead, freeze it for later, or throw it together on a whim with pantry staples. And if you love creative casserole ideas, you should also try my mac n cheese with alfredo sauce—another delicious twist on a classic.
Mac and cheese meatloaf casserole isn’t just a meal—it’s comfort in every bite and a smart solution for real-life dinners.
Ingredients & How to Make Easy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
What You’ll Need for the Layers
This mac and cheese and meatloaf casserole is made with real, simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. That’s what makes it such a reliable go-to meal. You’ll need:
- 1½ lbs ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the mac and cheese layer:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- Salt to taste
When all those layers come together, mac and cheese meatloaf casserole transforms into a two-in-one dish that’s creamy, meaty, and irresistible.
How to Prepare It Step-by-Step
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Mix the meatloaf base—ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire, and seasonings. Press the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
While the meat is cooking, boil the macaroni and prepare a simple cheese sauce. Melt the butter, whisk in the flour, add milk slowly, then stir in the cheese until smooth. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat.
Once the meatloaf base is partially cooked, remove it from the oven and spread the mac and cheese evenly over the top. Bake everything for another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
This combo is the ultimate dinner hero. And if you’re looking for more cozy meals made from pantry staples, try my chicken parmesan with alfredo sauce. It’s another comforting classic that’s easy enough for busy nights.
Mac and cheese meatloaf casserole is rich, reliable, and made to impress without the stress.
How to Serve and Store Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Serving Suggestions That Make It a Meal
Mac and cheese meatloaf casserole is the kind of dish that satisfies on its own, but it also plays well with sides. At my table, it usually shows up with a crisp green salad or some roasted broccoli. That little bit of freshness balances the creamy richness of the casserole perfectly.
For something heartier, try serving it with garlic bread or cornbread. My husband loves it with a dash of hot sauce, while my kids prefer a drizzle of ketchup—because they’re still in that phase! And when I want to really round out the comfort food experience, I sometimes pair it with something bold like these garlic butter steak bites with parmesan cream sauce. It’s the kind of indulgent combo that gets no complaints.
This dish makes for an impressive presentation at potlucks or weekend gatherings. Slice it cleanly into squares and serve it on a platter—it holds together beautifully.
Storing Leftovers the Smart Way
Leftovers? Yes, please. Mac and cheese meatloaf casserole keeps well for 3–4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes to get that golden, cheesy top back without drying it out.
You can also freeze it. Cut into portions, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven.
One of the best things about easy mac and cheese meatloaf casserole is that the flavor deepens overnight. It’s just as comforting the next day—maybe even better.
Variations & Tips for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Easy Ways to Make It Your Own
One of the things I love about mac and cheese meatloaf casserole is how easy it is to customize. Want to make it spicy? Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. Craving extra richness? Use a mix of cheddar and smoked gouda for the mac and cheese layer. That smoky flavor adds depth without much effort.
You can also swap out the meat. Ground turkey or chicken works great, especially if you’re looking for a leaner option. I’ve even added cooked bacon or chopped spinach to the meatloaf for a little twist—and it disappears just as fast!
If you’re trying to sneak in more veggies for the kids, fold in finely shredded carrots or zucchini into the meat mixture. They won’t even notice. And for those nights when you want a shortcut, use a boxed mac and cheese mix as the topping—it works in a pinch and still gives you that creamy finish.
Extra Tips for Foolproof Results
For the best texture, don’t skip resting time. Letting the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes after baking helps it set up and slice cleanly.
If your cheese sauce ever feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it. If it’s too thin, a little extra shredded cheese stirred in will fix it fast.
And remember to grease your baking dish well so nothing sticks. Want even more comfort food ideas? Try my spicy alfredo sauce as a base for pasta bakes—it’s bold, creamy, and another family favorite.
Whatever variation you choose, mac and cheese meatloaf casserole is one of those forgiving recipes that always comes out cozy and delicious.
FAQs About Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
What is the best cheese for macaroni and cheese?
For a creamy and flavorful result, sharp cheddar is the go-to cheese for mac and cheese. It melts smoothly and has that classic tang we all love. In mac and cheese meatloaf casserole, I like mixing cheddar with a little Monterey Jack or mozzarella for extra melt and stretch.
Why is Cracker Barrel mac and cheese so good?
Cracker Barrel mac and cheese is rich and ultra-creamy because they use real cheese, a silky béchamel base, and no shortcuts. That same smooth, satisfying texture is what we aim for in mac and cheese meatloaf casserole—homemade and hearty.
What meat pairs well with mac and cheese?
Ground beef, ground turkey, or even leftover shredded brisket all pair perfectly with mac and cheese. In mac and cheese meatloaf casserole, seasoned ground beef is the star, but you can easily switch it up with sausage or plant-based meat for a new flavor twist.
What is the secret to good mac and cheese?
The key is balancing the roux and cheese—cook your flour and butter fully before adding milk, and use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt. In mac and cheese meatloaf casserole, that smooth, homemade cheese sauce brings the entire dish together.
Conclusion
Mac and cheese meatloaf casserole is more than just a clever combo—it’s a meal that brings people together. Whether you’re craving something cozy after a long day or need a hearty option for your family table, this dish delivers every time. It’s rich, comforting, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
I love how this recipe brings together my childhood memories of meatloaf and mac and cheese, all in one pan. It’s the kind of food that feels nostalgic and new at the same time. The next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, give mac and cheese meatloaf casserole a try. I promise—it’ll hit the spot.
And don’t forget, meals like this one are meant to be shared. If you make it, tag me or leave a comment. I’d love to hear how it turned out in your kitchen! . Want more easy and delicious ideas from New Easy Recipe? Check out our full collection on Pinterest
