When it comes to comfort food, few things are more beloved than a hearty meatloaf or a creamy bowl of mac and cheese. So, why not combine the two into one amazing dish? Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a unique twist on classic comfort food that will satisfy both your mac and cheese cravings and your love for a savory, meaty meal. This casserole features a rich layer of creamy mac and cheese topped with a savory, flavorful meatloaf mixture, then baked to perfection for a cheesy, meaty, and comforting dish everyone will love

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Mac and cheese is already a classic comfort food, and adding a meatloaf layer takes it to the next level of heartiness.
• Two Meals in One: This casserole combines two family favorites into one, saving you time and effort.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this dish, with its cheesy pasta and flavorful meatloaf.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this casserole is a breeze to put together.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Meatloaf Layer:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mac and Cheese

1. Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux.
3. Add the milk: Slowly whisk in the 2 cups of milk, making sure to remove any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time, allowing it to melt completely. Once the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, add the cooked macaroni and stir to combine.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Layer

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix the meatloaf ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a little more milk to reach a smooth consistency.
3. Form the meatloaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Press it into an even layer, spreading it out to cover the bottom of the dish.
4. Add the ketchup: Spread 1/4 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer for added flavor and moisture.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the mac and cheese: Once the meatloaf layer is prepared, top it with the creamy mac and cheese, spreading it out evenly to cover the meat.
2. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly and the meatloaf is fully cooked through. If you like a crispier top, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Step 4: Let It Rest and Serve

1. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to slice.
2. Serve: Cut into squares and serve hot. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the casserole.

Tips for the Perfect Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Use a mix of cheeses: For an extra indulgent cheese sauce, try mixing in some Mozzarella or Gruyère along with the cheddar for a creamier, more complex flavor.
• Add veggies: If you want to sneak some veggies in, finely chop some bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini and mix them into the meatloaf layer. They will add both color and nutrition to the dish.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare this casserole the day before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to increase the baking time slightly if cooking from cold.
• Lean meat option: If you’re looking for a leaner version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or ground chicken. Just be sure to add extra seasoning to maintain the flavor.

Variations

Vegetarian Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole:

For a vegetarian version, substitute the meatloaf layer with a mixture of lentils or chopped mushrooms. Season them just like you would with the meatloaf mixture and bake as directed.

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Meatloaf:

Give your casserole a spicy kick by using shredded cooked chicken instead of beef, and adding hot sauce or buffalo sauce to the meatloaf mixture. This variation is perfect for anyone who loves a little heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to swap out the elbow macaroni for your favorite pasta shape, such as penne, rotini, or shells. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the casserole.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare both the mac and cheese and the meatloaf layers in advance. Simply store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake the casserole.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! This casserole freezes beautifully. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until heated through.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish, combining the richness of mac and cheese with the heartiness of a meatloaf. It’s cheesy, savory, and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, this casserole will quickly become a go-to meal that everyone will ask for again and again. Enjoy!