Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

If you love the comforting flavors of both mac and cheese and meatloaf, then this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate fusion dish for you! It combines two all-time favorite comfort foods into one delicious and hearty casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. This recipe is a rich and flavorful casserole with layers of creamy mac and cheese on top of a juicy, savory meatloaf base. You get the best of both worlds in every bite! Stick around as we go through the step-by-step process to create this decadent dish, along with some helpful tips, variations, and frequently asked questions.

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What is Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is exactly what it sounds like—a casserole that marries two classics: macaroni and cheese and meatloaf. The base is made from seasoned ground beef (similar to a traditional meatloaf), while the top is a luscious layer of creamy, cheesy macaroni. The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s rich in flavor and texture. It’s a perfect dish when you’re looking for something filling and comforting, yet surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients List for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

To make this indulgent casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Meatloaf Base:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 lean)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup ketchup (optional, for topping the meatloaf)

For the Mac and Cheese Topping:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2% for creaminess)
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon paprika or cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)

Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for added cheesiness)
• ¼ cup chopped parsley (for garnish)
• ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon (for added richness in the mac and cheese)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, and you can adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are a few ways to make substitutions or add variety to the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole:

• Ground Meat: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork. A mix of beef and pork also works well for a more flavorful meatloaf base.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs can replace traditional breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier texture. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to make the dish gluten-free.
• Cheese: Swap out the cheddar for a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even smoked gouda for a more complex flavor.
• Spices: Add Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or even taco seasoning to the meatloaf to bring different flavor profiles.
• Vegetables: Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrition. You can also toss peas, spinach, or broccoli into the mac and cheese.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to make this delicious Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or a deep casserole dish and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined, but be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatloaf tough.

Once combined, press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If you like a classic meatloaf flavor, spread ¼ cup of ketchup on top of the meatloaf layer for extra tang. Set the dish aside while you prepare the mac and cheese.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Continue whisking for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes lightly golden, which helps cook out the raw flour taste.

Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Once the sauce has thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mustard powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If you like a sharper flavor, add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese at this point.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well-coated.

Carefully spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer in the baking dish. For a crispy topping, sprinkle ½ cup of breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese, or add more cheese if you prefer an extra cheesy top.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F) and the cheese topping is bubbly and slightly golden. If using breadcrumbs, they should be toasted and crispy by the end of baking.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to make it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, and enjoy!

How to Cook Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F and grease your baking dish.
• Step 2: Mix together meatloaf ingredients and press into the dish.
• Step 3: Cook macaroni until al dente and drain.
• Step 4: Make a cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and cheese.
• Step 5: Mix macaroni into the cheese sauce and layer over the meatloaf.
• Step 6: Top with breadcrumbs or extra cheese, and bake for 30-35 minutes.
• Step 7: Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Meatloaf: Overworking the meatloaf mixture can lead to a dense, tough texture. Mix just until everything is combined.
2. Undercooking the Meatloaf: Be sure to check that the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
3. Too Dry Mac and Cheese: If your mac and cheese seems too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out before layering it on the meatloaf.
4. Skipping the Resting Period: Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it set, making it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, presentation can take this hearty dish to the next level:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives for a fresh, vibrant look.
• Serve with vegetables: Pair this rich casserole with a side of roasted or steamed veggies like green beans, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts to balance out the meal.
• Create individual portions: For a dinner party or gathering, bake the casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch.

How to Serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

This casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but pairing it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables can lighten up the meal. Serve large slices with a spatula, ensuring each portion gets a bit of both the mac and cheese and the meatloaf base. A tangy barbecue sauce or ketchup on the side can add extra flavor for those who enjoy a bit of sweetness with their meatloaf.

Presentation Ideas for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Cheese Pull Moment: If you love a good cheese pull, use extra cheese in the topping and serve the casserole piping hot so the cheese is extra gooey and melty.
• Rustic Look: Serve the casserole straight from the dish to the table for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• Layering Effect: When cutting into the casserole, the contrasting layers of savory meatloaf and creamy mac and cheese will already look impressive, so serve it in clear or glass dishes to showcase those layers.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble this casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add 10 extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold from the fridge.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble it (but don’t bake), cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boxed mac and cheese?
A: Yes! If you’re short on time, you can prepare boxed mac and cheese and layer it over the meatloaf instead of making it from scratch.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, just use gluten-free pasta, gluten-free breadcrumbs, and a gluten-free thickener for the cheese sauce (such as cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend).

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use shells, rotini, or any short pasta shape you prefer in place of the elbow macaroni.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf?
A: Yes, finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added to the meatloaf mixture for extra nutrients.

Conclusion

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food hybrid, combining the savory, juicy flavors of meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole is easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavor. Whether you're indulging in a rich, cheesy bite or savoring the seasoned meatloaf, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Try it tonight and enjoy the best of both worlds in every bite!

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