When I’m craving something hearty, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying, this mac and cheese meatloaf casserole always hits the mark. It combines two comfort food favorites—creamy mac and cheese layered over savory, juicy meatloaf—into one dish that’s rich, filling, and absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this casserole brings together the best of both worlds. The bottom layer is a flavorful meatloaf base that’s moist and seasoned just right, while the top is loaded with creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s a fun, family-friendly meal that’s great for busy nights or feeding a crowd. Plus, it bakes in one dish, which means fewer dishes for me.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the meatloaf layer:
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Ground beef or ground turkey
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Egg
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Breadcrumbs
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Onion, finely chopped
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Garlic, minced
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Ketchup or tomato paste
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Worcestershire sauce
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Salt and black pepper
For the mac and cheese layer:
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Elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
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Butter
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All-purpose flour
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Milk
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: paprika or mustard powder for extra flavor
Directions
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I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
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In a large bowl, I mix the ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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I press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the casserole dish to form the meatloaf layer.
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I bake the meatloaf base for 20–25 minutes while I prepare the mac and cheese.
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For the cheese sauce, I melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to make a roux, then slowly add milk, stirring until smooth and thickened.
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I stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy, then season it with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
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I fold in the cooked macaroni, then layer the mac and cheese over the partially baked meatloaf.
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I return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
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I let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6–8 people. Prep time takes about 20 minutes, and baking time is around 40–45 minutes total, depending on your oven.
Variations
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I sometimes mix shredded mozzarella or pepper jack into the cheese sauce for extra richness.
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For a tangy twist, I add a spoonful of Dijon mustard or hot sauce to the mac and cheese.
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Using ground chicken or turkey instead of beef lightens the dish without losing flavor.
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I top the casserole with breadcrumbs or extra cheese before the final bake for a crispy finish.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions. I avoid overcooking to keep the mac and cheese creamy.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, I often assemble the full dish a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. It may need a few extra minutes in the oven if chilled.
What’s the best cheese to use?
I prefer sharp cheddar for bold flavor, but a mix of cheddar and mozzarella or Colby Jack also works great.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. I freeze the baked or unbaked casserole (without toppings) for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, I use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. The results are still delicious and comforting.
How do I keep the meatloaf layer from drying out?
I make sure not to overbake the meatloaf and use enough sauce and onion for moisture. Covering the casserole with foil while baking can also help.
Conclusion
This mac and cheese meatloaf casserole is the definition of comfort food. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor—all baked into one satisfying dish. Whether I’m feeding a family or treating myself to leftovers for the week, this recipe never fails to please.
Print
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
- Total Time: 60–65 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8
- Category: Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baking, Oven
- Cuisine: American
Description
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup—rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor. A savory meatloaf layer serves as the hearty base, topped with ultra-creamy homemade mac and cheese. Baked together in one dish, this family-friendly casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something satisfying and nostalgic.
Ingredients
- For the meatloaf layer:
- Ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 egg
- Breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Ketchup or tomato paste
- Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the mac and cheese layer:
- Elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Milk
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: paprika or mustard powder for extra flavor
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
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In a large bowl, combine ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper.
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Press mixture into the bottom of the dish to form an even meatloaf layer.
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Bake meatloaf for 20–25 minutes while preparing the mac and cheese.
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In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour to make a roux, and slowly add milk, stirring until thick.
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Stir in cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
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Fold in cooked macaroni and mix well.
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Spoon mac and cheese over the partially baked meatloaf and smooth into an even layer.
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Bake for another 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
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Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for extra cheesy flavor.
- Add Dijon mustard or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a punch of flavor.
- Use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter variation.
- Top with breadcrumbs or extra shredded cheese before the final bake for added crunch.
- Let casserole rest before serving for easier slicing.
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