When it comes to comfort food, few things beat the combination of creamy mac and cheese and a hearty meatloaf. But what if you could have both in one delicious dish? That’s exactly what you get with this mac and cheese meatloaf casserole—two family favorites combined into one easy, flavorful recipe. This casserole brings together tender meatloaf, cheesy macaroni, and a golden, crispy topping for a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food, and meatloaf is a hearty staple that’s perfect for family meals. By combining these two dishes, you get the best of both worlds—savory, meaty goodness paired with creamy, cheesy pasta. The result is a filling and flavorful casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, packed with flavors and textures that complement each other. The creamy mac and cheese provides a rich, velvety base, while the meatloaf adds savory protein and a satisfying heartiness. The crispy top is the perfect finishing touch to this indulgent dish.
Ingredients for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
To make this mouthwatering casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients for both the meatloaf and the mac and cheese:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mixture of ground beef and ground pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup (for both flavor and binding)
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, but adds great flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra cheesiness)
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for crunch)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the casserole without drying it out, allowing everything to meld together beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, finely chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until fully combined.
Transfer the meatloaf mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, pressing it down to ensure an even layer. This will be the base of your casserole.
Step 3: Make the Mac and Cheese While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the mac and cheese. Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to keep the mixture smooth. Once the milk is incorporated, add the mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Once the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely. Then, add the cooked macaroni and mix well, ensuring all the pasta is coated in the cheesy sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole Once the meatloaf has cooked for about 20-25 minutes and started to firm up, remove it from the oven. Spoon the prepared mac and cheese evenly over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it out with a spatula. This will create the second layer of the casserole.
Step 5: Add the Topping For the final touch, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese layer to create a crispy, golden topping.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added color and flavor.
Why This Casserole Works So Well
- Two Classic Comfort Foods in One: Combining mac and cheese with meatloaf creates a comforting, hearty meal that’s full of flavor. Both dishes are crowd favorites, making this casserole a guaranteed hit at your dinner table.
- Savory and Cheesy: The creamy mac and cheese provides a velvety, rich base, while the meatloaf adds savory, juicy meatiness. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite a perfect balance of textures.
- Easy to Make: This casserole may seem like a gourmet dish, but it’s simple to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and steps, you can make a delicious and filling meal that’s perfect for busy nights or family gatherings.
- Customizable: If you want to make this casserole your own, feel free to experiment with different cheeses, meats, or seasonings. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option or try a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
- Leftover-Friendly: This casserole is even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy meal.
Healthier Substitutions
If you’re looking for healthier alternatives, here are a few tips to lighten up the dish:
- Lean Meat: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lower-fat version of the meatloaf.
- Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: Swap regular breadcrumbs for whole wheat breadcrumbs to add more fiber to the dish.
- Low-Fat Dairy: Use low-fat milk and cheese to reduce the overall fat content of the casserole.
Conclusion
Mac and cheese meatloaf casserole is the ultimate comfort food—savory, cheesy, and completely satisfying. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a filling family dinner. With layers of rich mac and cheese and hearty meatloaf, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it out today, and enjoy the delicious combination of two classic comfort foods in one dish!