Introduction
When it comes to comforting, crowd-pleasing meals, few dishes can beat the hearty goodness of a classic meatloaf or the creamy richness of mac and cheese. But what if you could combine both into one indulgent, filling casserole? Well, you can! Introducing the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole—a true game-changer that combines the savory, tender flavors of meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy satisfaction of mac and cheese, all baked together in one delicious, easy-to-make casserole. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, entertaining guests, or simply craving something comforting, this dish is the ultimate solution.
The best part? This casserole is so simple to make and requires just a few basic ingredients. With a juicy meatloaf layer that’s baked to perfection, topped with velvety mac and cheese, and finished off with a gooey layer of melted cheese, this dish will become an instant favorite in your recipe collection. Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole delivers the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an unforgettable meal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: Perfect for cozy nights in or large gatherings, this casserole is the definition of comfort food.
- Two Favorite Dishes Combined: The best of both worlds—meatloaf and mac and cheese—united in a single pan.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal with minimal effort.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer a spicier version, a vegetarian twist, or extra cheesy goodness, you can adapt this recipe to suit your taste.
- Leftovers Taste Even Better: This casserole holds up wonderfully in the fridge, so it’s perfect for meal prep and reheating the next day.
Ingredients
To create this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that will come together to form a rich, comforting dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for both the meatloaf layer and the mac and cheese layer:
For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 85% lean to ensure juiciness)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko works best, but regular breadcrumbs will do)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds flavor and a bit of saltiness)
- 1 egg (binds the meat mixture together)
- 1/4 cup milk (helps keep the meatloaf moist)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (adds sweetness and depth)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (for savory flavor)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds a savory, umami kick)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional, but brings extra depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for seasoning)
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta of your choice)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for a rich, sharp flavor)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (adds creaminess and meltability)
- 2 cups whole milk (for a creamy base)
- 2 tbsp butter (essential for the roux)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, but adds a slight tang)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (for an aromatic flavor)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder (for additional depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for seasoning)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup crispy fried onions (optional, but adds a nice crunch)
- Extra shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, for a cheesy topping)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Layer
The first step in creating this amazing casserole is to get your meatloaf layer ready. This forms the base of the casserole and provides a savory foundation for the creamy mac and cheese topping. Follow these simple steps to make the meatloaf:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense meatloaf.
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared casserole dish, shaping it into a loaf that fits snugly in the pan. Press down gently to even out the surface.
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. The meatloaf should be fully cooked and browned on top by the end of this time.
Step 2: Prepare the Mac and Cheese Layer
While the meatloaf is baking, it’s time to prepare the creamy, cheesy mac and cheese layer. This step is essential for adding the richness and comfort that mac and cheese is known for. Here’s how to do it:
- Boil the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking for about 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder, and stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until the pasta is completely coated in the cheesy sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Now that both the meatloaf and the mac and cheese are ready, it’s time to bring them together and assemble the casserole.
- Once the meatloaf layer is done baking, remove the casserole from the oven. Spread the mac and cheese evenly on top of the meatloaf layer, making sure the noodles are fully covered.
- Sprinkle the extra shredded cheese on top of the mac and cheese layer. This will create a golden, bubbly cheese crust as it bakes.
- Place the casserole back in the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle crispy fried onions over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the casserole is golden and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve. Slice into squares and enjoy the layers of savory meatloaf, creamy mac and cheese, and gooey melted cheese.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people, depending on portion sizes. It’s perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
1. Vegetarian Mac and Cheese Meatloaf:
For a plant-based version of this dish, you can swap out the ground beef for a veggie-based meat substitute such as lentils, tempeh, or plant-based ground meat. Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk for the mac and cheese layer to keep it vegan-friendly.
2. Spicy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf:
If you enjoy a little heat, add jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture. You can also add some crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for an extra spicy kick.
3. Bacon Lover’s Mac and Cheese Meatloaf:
For bacon lovers, mix crumbled bacon into the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor. You can also sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top of the casserole before serving for an added crunch.
4. Cheesy Veggie Mac and Cheese:
Add extra vegetables to your mac and cheese layer. Try broccoli, spinach, or roasted zucchini for a veggie-packed twist.
Storage and Reheating
Storing:
Leftovers of this casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze individual portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This casserole will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
To reheat, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes or until hot. Alternatively, for the best texture, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Conclusion
The Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a unique and indulgent dish that brings together two of the most beloved comfort foods in one perfect casserole. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility—you can customize it to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you’re adding extra spice, vegetables, or even bacon, the possibilities are endless. Try this recipe today and enjoy a meal that will bring smiles to everyone at the table!