Few dishes capture the heart of comfort food like Meatloaf and Mac and Cheese Casserole. This hearty, all-in-one meal combines tender, juicy meatloaf with a creamy, cheesy macaroni topping that turns into a golden, bubbling crust in the oven. It’s a family-friendly recipe that feels nostalgic, yet indulgent enough to serve at gatherings or holidays.
If you’ve ever struggled to choose between meatloaf and mac and cheese for dinner, this recipe solves the problem beautifully—why not enjoy both in one irresistible casserole?
What is Meatloaf and Mac and Cheese Casserole?
This dish layers two American classics:
- Meatloaf base – ground beef (or a mix of meats) seasoned with onions, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs for structure.
- Mac and cheese topping – elbow macaroni coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, then baked until perfectly golden.
The result? A dish with a savory, protein-packed bottom and a gooey, cheesy top that’s crisped to perfection.
Why This Recipe Works
- Two comfort foods in one – meat + pasta = unbeatable satisfaction.
- Meal-prep friendly – stores well, freezes easily, and reheats without losing flavor.
- Customizable – perfect for picky eaters or creative home chefs.
- Crowd-pleaser – ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or holiday buffets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for richness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or traditional)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp ketchup or tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (warm)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Base
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk, letting them soak for 5 minutes.
- Add ground beef, egg, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix gently until just combined.
- Press mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Bake the Meatloaf
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until partially cooked. This step ensures the meatloaf is firm enough to hold the mac and cheese layer.
3. Cook the Pasta
- While the meatloaf bakes, cook elbow macaroni until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Slowly add warm milk, whisking until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, paprika, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Toss macaroni in the sauce until evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over the baked meatloaf.
6. Final Bake
- Return dish to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Rest and Serve
- Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This prevents the layers from falling apart.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a mix of meats (beef + pork + veal) for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overmix the meatloaf—gentle handling keeps it tender.
- Try different cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a gourmet twist.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers over the mac and cheese before baking.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick – add jalapeños, hot sauce, or pepper jack cheese.
- Low-Carb – replace pasta with steamed cauliflower florets.
- Gluten-Free – use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- Kid-Friendly – top with extra cheddar and skip the spices.
- Gourmet – layer caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms between meatloaf and mac.
What to Serve With It
Since this casserole is rich and filling, pair it with:
- Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted green beans or broccoli
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Light fruit salad for dessert
Storage & Reheating Guide
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap; freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 minutes, or microwave in portions.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, refrigerate, then bake before serving.
Q: What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese topping?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but combining it with mozzarella or Gruyère creates the best melt and flavor.
Q: How do I keep meatloaf moist?
Soaking breadcrumbs in milk is key—it acts as a binder and prevents dryness.
Q: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! Use two baking dishes and adjust cooking time slightly.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx. 8 Servings)
- Calories: 540
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 36g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
Meatloaf and Mac and Cheese Casserole is the definition of comfort food—savory, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this dish delivers flavor and comfort in every bite.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying as it is unforgettable.
