When comfort food cravings hit, this Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect marriage of two classic comfort dishes—rich, juicy meatloaf and creamy, cheesy macaroni—layered together into one hearty casserole that’s sure to please the whole family.

This recipe takes familiar, well-loved flavors and combines them into a dish that’s both nostalgic and exciting. The bottom layer features a perfectly seasoned meatloaf, baked until juicy and tender. Then, it’s topped with creamy, homemade mac and cheese and finished with more melted cheddar for that gooey, golden finish.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS MACARONI AND CHEESE MEATLOAF CASSEROLE

This casserole checks all the boxes when it comes to a satisfying, family-friendly dinner:

• Combines two classic comfort food favorites in one dish.
• Easy to prepare and uses simple pantry ingredients.
• Great for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.
• Kid-approved and perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Can be made ahead and reheated for busy days.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

Let’s gather everything you’ll need to make both layers of this delicious casserole:

For the Meatloaf Layer:

• 1 ½ lbs (680g) ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup ketchup
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mac and Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping:

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

TIPS BEFORE YOU BEGIN

• Use lean ground beef to keep the meatloaf from becoming greasy.
• Grate your own cheese for the creamiest mac and cheese texture.
• Allow the meatloaf to partially cook while you prepare the mac and cheese to save time.

LET’S GET STARTED: THE FIRST STEPS

STEP 1: PREHEAT OVEN

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly heated oven ensures even cooking and helps both layers bake perfectly.

STEP 2: PREPARE THE MEATLOAF MIXTURE

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.

STEP 3: BAKE THE MEATLOAF BASE

Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a flat, even layer. Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.

STEP 4: COOK THE MACARONI

While the meatloaf bakes, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for the next step.

HOW TO MAKE THE CREAMY MAC AND CHEESE AND ASSEMBLE THE CASSEROLE

With the meatloaf layer baking and the macaroni cooked, it’s time to bring this casserole together with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and finish it off with that irresistible bubbly topping.

THE SECRET TO A SILKY CHEESE SAUCE

The key to a perfectly creamy mac and cheese is starting with a roux, which helps thicken the sauce without becoming grainy. Gradually adding the milk and cheese ensures a smooth, velvety texture that coats every bite of pasta.

LET’S CONTINUE: MAKING THE SAUCE AND ASSEMBLING THE CASSEROLE

STEP 5: MAKE THE CHEESE SAUCE

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Once thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

STEP 6: COMBINE MACARONI AND CHEESE SAUCE

Add the drained, cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until all of the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

STEP 7: ASSEMBLE THE CASSEROLE

Carefully remove the partially baked meatloaf from the oven. Spoon the creamy mac and cheese mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf layer. Spread it gently to cover the entire surface. Sprinkle the additional ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the mac and cheese layer for a perfectly cheesy topping.

STEP 8: BAKE AGAIN

Return the assembled casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. Bake until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.

STEP 9: SERVE

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, colorful finish.

EXPERT TIPS FOR THE BEST MACARONI AND CHEESE MEATLOAF CASSEROLE

• Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts more smoothly and avoids the fillers found in pre-shredded cheese.
• Do not overcook the pasta: Slightly undercooked (al dente) macaroni works best, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Let the casserole rest before slicing: Allowing it to cool slightly helps the layers hold together better.
• Customize your cheese blend: While cheddar is classic, you can mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for added flavor.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

This casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. It’s a perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meal prepping.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MACARONI AND CHEESE MEATLOAF CASSEROLE

Even though this recipe is easy to follow, a few common questions often come up. Here are answers to help you make this dish perfectly every time.

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. You can fully assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes if baking directly from the refrigerator.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely. Once fully baked and cooled, you can freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef for a lighter version. Just make sure to adjust seasoning as poultry is typically milder in flavor.

4. What other cheeses can I use for the mac and cheese layer?

You can get creative with your cheese blend. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even Gruyère work wonderfully in this casserole. Combining two or three types of cheese adds extra depth of flavor.

5. Can I use store-bought mac and cheese instead of homemade?

You can, but homemade cheese sauce gives you a creamier and fresher taste. If you’re short on time, store-bought mac and cheese can be used as a shortcut for the top layer.

6. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy?

Using lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) helps minimize grease. You can also carefully drain any excess fat from the meatloaf after the first bake before adding the mac and cheese layer.

7. What sides go well with this casserole?

Since this casserole is quite hearty, lighter sides like a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly to round out the meal.

CONCLUSION: THE ULTIMATE COMFORT FOOD COMBINATION

This Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe You’ll Love is the perfect way to bring two beloved comfort foods together into one irresistible dish. With a savory meatloaf base, creamy mac and cheese topping, and a golden, bubbly finish, every bite is rich, satisfying, and full of flavor.

I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy how easy and comforting it is. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or preparing it for a gathering, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite on your dinner table.

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