Here’s a Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole recipe that combines two comfort food classics into one hearty, family-friendly dish. It’s cheesy, meaty, and perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
🍽️ Servings: 6–8
⏱️ Prep Time: 25 mins
⏱️ Cook Time: 45 mins
🔥 Total Time: ~1 hour 10 mins
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf Layer:
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1 ½ lbs ground beef (or mix with ground pork)
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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½ cup milk
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1 egg
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1 small onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ cup ketchup (optional topping)
For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
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2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp flour
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2 cups milk (warm)
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: ½ tsp mustard powder or hot sauce for a kick
Instructions
1. Prep Oven & Cook Pasta
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook macaroni to al dente, drain, and set aside.
2. Make Meatloaf Base
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In a bowl, mix all meatloaf ingredients (except ketchup) until combined.
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Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
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Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
3. Make Cheese Sauce
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In a saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
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Slowly whisk in warm milk, cook until thickened.
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Stir in cheese, salt, pepper, and optional spices until melted and smooth.
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Combine with the cooked pasta.
4. Assemble Casserole
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Remove meatloaf from oven. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top (optional).
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Spoon mac and cheese evenly over meatloaf layer.
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Sprinkle extra cheese on top, if desired.
5. Bake
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Return to oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Cool & Serve
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Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to set up.
Optional Add-Ins
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Chopped bacon in mac and cheese
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Jalapeños or crushed red pepper for heat
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Topping with breadcrumbs or French fried onions for crunch