Cheesy Mac and Meatloaf Casserole Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Creamy mac and cheese meatloaf casserole brings comfort food to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Layers of melted cheese, tender meat, and pasta create a mouthwatering combination that feels like a warm hug.

Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly in this crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknight dinners.

Bold flavors and easy preparation make this recipe a true winner in any kitchen.

Meat lovers and pasta enthusiasts will absolutely adore how each bite combines rich, savory elements.

Crispy edges and gooey center promise a satisfying meal that disappears quickly from the dinner table.

Proper Storage For Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date and contents.
• Place portion on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Place meatloaf in baking dish, cover with foil. Warm for 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying out.

FAQs About Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative and works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s fully cooked to 165°F for food safety.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the combination of meatloaf and mac and cheese. The familiar flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for children of all ages.

• How can I make this dish more nutritious?

Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots or spinach into the meatloaf mixture. This boosts nutrition without changing the overall taste significantly.

• Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the entire dish in advance, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Why Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Is So Hearty

• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Combines two beloved classics into one hearty dish that satisfies everyone from kids to adults.
• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: Requires minimal prep work and uses straightforward ingredients most home cooks already have in their kitchen.
• One-Pan Wonder: Eliminates multiple dish cleanup by creating a complete meal in a single baking dish, reducing kitchen mess and saving time.
• Budget-Friendly Feast: Utilizes affordable ingredients like ground beef and boxed mac and cheese to create a filling meal without breaking the bank.

Ingredients For Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Ground Beef: A flavorful protein that forms the foundation of the meatloaf layer.

• Breadcrumbs: Helps hold the meatloaf mixture together and adds texture.
• Egg: Provides structure and helps bind the meatloaf ingredients.

• Ketchup, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: These seasonings add depth and zest to the meatloaf base.

• Macaroni and Cheese: Creates a creamy, comforting topping that complements the savory meatloaf underneath.

How To Make Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Set your oven to a toasty 350 degrees Fahrenheit, getting it ready for the delicious magic about to happen.

Step 2: Create Meaty Magic

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Ketchup
• Egg
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blend everything together until the mixture is well incorporated and looks uniform.

Step 3: Shape The Base

Transfer the meat mixture into a baking dish, using your hands or a spatula to press it firmly and evenly across the bottom, creating a solid foundation for your casserole.

Step 4: Mac and Cheese Layer

Prepare your macaroni and cheese according to the package instructions. Once it’s creamy and perfect, spread the mac and cheese generously over the meatloaf base, creating a golden, cheesy blanket.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let it cook for approximately 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the meatloaf is thoroughly cooked and the mac and cheese looks beautifully golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve And Savor

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice into hearty portions and serve immediately while it’s hot and incredibly delicious.

Pro Tips For Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier dish.
• Enhance flavor by adding chopped onions or grated cheese to the meatloaf mixture for extra depth.
• Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set and make slicing easier.
• Swap regular mac and cheese with a gluten-free version for those with dietary restrictions.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Flavor Ideas For Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Southwestern Spice: Add diced jalapeños, chili powder, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
• Buffalo Blaze: Mix hot sauce into the ground beef, sprinkle blue cheese crumbles on mac and cheese, and garnish with green onions.
• Italian Fusion: Incorporate Italian seasoning, mix marinara sauce into meat, and top with mozzarella and fresh basil.
• Ranch Ranch: Blend ranch seasoning into meat mixture, drizzle ranch dressing over mac and cheese, and garnish with crispy bacon bits.

Perfect Pairings For Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Pair with Bold Red Wine: Complement the rich, meaty flavors of the meatloaf with a robust cabernet sauvignon or zinfandel that cuts through the creamy mac and cheese.
• Crisp Salad Side Kick: Balance the heavy casserole with a light, tangy green salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zingy vinaigrette to refresh the palate.
• Roasted Vegetable Harmony: Add roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts seasoned with garlic and olive oil to introduce a caramelized, slightly charred element that enhances the dish's savory profile.
• Cool Beer Companion: Select a medium-bodied amber ale or craft lager that provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, cheesy meatloaf, cleansing the palate between bites.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comforting mac and cheese meatloaf casserole blends classic American comfort foods into one hearty dish. Creamy pasta and savory ground beef merge perfectly, creating a crowd-pleasing meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Protein:

• 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef
• 1 whole egg

Starch and Binding:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 box macaroni and cheese

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 350°F, ensuring a consistent temperature for even cooking.
2. Combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, ketchup, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl, blending thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Transfer the meat mixture into a baking dish, carefully pressing and smoothing it to create an uniform base layer with no air pockets.
4. Prepare macaroni and cheese using package directions, ensuring a creamy and well-mixed consistency.
5. Gently spread the prepared mac and cheese over the meat mixture, creating a complete and even top layer that covers the entire surface.
6. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, checking that the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F.
7. Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5-7 minutes, which helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
8. Slice into portions and serve immediately while the dish is hot and the cheese remains melted and appetizing.

Notes

• Swap traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
• Choose lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce overall fat content and create a healthier protein base.
• Add diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the meat mixture to boost nutritional value and enhance flavor complexity.
• Consider topping the mac and cheese layer with crispy bacon bits or crushed cheese crackers for extra texture and taste dimension.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg