Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

why make this recipe

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is warm, simple, and filling. It mixes two favorites — meatloaf and mac and cheese — into one dish. Families like it. You can make it ahead and bake when guests arrive. For a similar cozy side dish, see this mac and cheese recipe for ideas.

introduction

This dish uses ground beef, cooked macaroni, and cheese in a casserole. You stack meat, cheesy pasta, and more meat, then bake. It tastes like comfort food and holds well for leftovers. It is a good choice when you want one-pan cooking.

how to make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Work in simple steps. Mix the meat with onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, and season. Cook pasta and stir with cheese and milk. Layer meat, macaroni, and meat in a greased pan. Top with more cheese if you like. Bake until the meat is done and the top is golden. For extra mac and cheese ideas, you can look at this easy mac and cheese guide.

Ingredients :

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup macaroni pasta
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• optional: additional cheese for topping

Directions :

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with cheese and milk.
5. In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the meat mixture, followed by all of the macaroni and cheese, then top with remaining meat mixture.
6. Sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is golden.
8. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve.

how to serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Slice the casserole like a meatloaf. Serve warm. Add a green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. For a light side, try a fresh salad like apple and feta salad. You can put ketchup or barbecue sauce on top for more flavor.

how to store Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Cool the casserole to room temperature. Cover and place in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, about 10–15 minutes. You can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Do not overmix the meat; mix until just combined.
• Drain pasta well so the casserole is not too wet.
• Use full-fat milk and sharp cheddar for a richer taste.
• Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes after baking so it firms up for clean slices.
• If the top browns too fast, cover with foil and finish baking.

variation (if any)

• Use ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for a different flavor.
• Stir in cooked bacon or chopped bell peppers into the meat mix.
• Swap half the cheddar for mozzarella for a stretchier texture.
• Add a layer of tomato sauce between meat and pasta for a tangy twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead and bake later?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if cold.

Q: Can I use different pasta?
A: Yes. Small shells or penne work well. Keep the pasta amount similar.

Q: Is it safe to freeze?
A: Yes. Freeze in portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Q: Can I make it without breadcrumbs?
A: Yes. You can leave breadcrumbs out or use crushed crackers or oats as a binder.

Q: How do I know when it is fully cooked?
A: The meat should reach 160°F (71°C). The top should be golden and the juices run clear.

Conclusion

For more photos and another take on Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, see Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole | The English Kitchen.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

This comforting casserole combines the classic flavors of meatloaf and mac and cheese, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or meal prep.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup macaroni pasta
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Additional cheese can be used for topping.
• 1 ea egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Can be omitted or substituted.
• 1 ea onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup milk Using full-fat milk is recommended.
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• optional ea additional cheese for topping

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with cheese and milk.
5. In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the meat mixture, followed by all of the macaroni and cheese, then top with the remaining meat mixture.
6. Sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is golden.
8. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve.

Notes

Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking for cleaner slices. Use a cover if the top browns too quickly during baking.