Combine two all-time comfort food favorites into one spectacular dish with this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. The bottom layer is a savory, juicy meatloaf, glazed with a touch of sweet ketchup or BBQ sauce. The top layer is creamy, homemade macaroni and cheese baked until golden and bubbly. It is the ultimate indulgence—a “meat and three” meal stacked into one sliceable, cheesy masterpiece.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Ultimate Mashup
Why choose between meatloaf and mac and cheese when you can have both? The savory juices from the meatloaf baste the pasta from below, while the cheese sauce drips down into the meat, creating a flavor synergy that is hard to beat. It’s a fun, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a special treat, perfect for Sunday supper or a potluck where you want to impress.
Homemade Goodness
While you could use a boxed mac and cheese, the homemade version takes this over the top. A simple roux-based cheese sauce ensures the pasta stays creamy even after baking. The meatloaf is seasoned with onions and garlic, ensuring it’s flavorful on its own, not just a bland base for the pasta.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
Instructions
- Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Press into baking dish.
- Bake meatloaf at 375°F for 20 minutes. Drain grease.
- Cook macaroni. Make cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and cheese.
- Pour mac and cheese over meatloaf. Bake 15-20 mins more.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 for a juicy meatloaf base.
Breadcrumbs & Egg: The binders that keep the meatloaf intact.
Elbow Macaroni: The classic shape for holding cheese sauce.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cuts through the richness of the meat.
Milk & Butter: For the creamy béchamel sauce.
Ketchup/BBQ Sauce: For glazing the meatloaf layer.
Smart Substitutions
You can use ground turkey or pork for the meatloaf. If you want to sneak in veggies, finely diced carrots or peppers can be hidden in the meat mixture. Shells or cavatappi pasta work well if you don’t have elbows. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the mac and cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Boil the macaroni to al dente and drain.
Cooking Phase
Meatloaf Layer: In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking dish. Spread a thin layer of ketchup or BBQ sauce over the raw meat. Bake for 20 minutes to start setting the meat.
Mac & Cheese Layer: While meat bakes, melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour, then slowly add milk. Simmer until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until smooth. Toss with the cooked macaroni.
Assembly: Remove meatloaf from oven (drain excess grease if needed). Pour the mac and cheese over the meatloaf. Top with extra cheese.
Final Bake: Bake for another 15-20 minutes until the meat is fully cooked (160°F) and the top is bubbly. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Draining the grease after the first bake is key. If you don’t, the grease will pool up into your mac and cheese. Also, letting the casserole rest is mandatory—if you cut into it too soon, the layers will slide apart. It needs to set.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the pasta is a common mistake. Since it bakes in the oven, boil it for 2 minutes less than the package says. It should be firm when you mix it with the cheese sauce.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 35g |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Slice into squares like lasagna. Garnish with parsley.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve with steamed broccoli or peas to balance the heaviness. If you love creative pasta bakes, try our Beef and Noodles (Zucchini Noodles) for a lighter take on beef and pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I make this ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to baking time if cooking from cold.
Q2? Why is my meatloaf soggy?
Use lean beef (90/10) to reduce grease, or make sure to drain the liquid after the par-bake step.
Q3? Can I use boxed mac and cheese?
Yes, prepare 2 boxes according to instructions and pour over the meatloaf.
Conclusion
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a showstopper. It satisfies every craving for cheesy, meaty comfort food in one delicious bite.
