Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

A comforting mash-up of two family favorites: juicy, seasoned meatloaf topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese. It’s hearty, cozy, and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or family gathering.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 1½ lb (680 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Mac & Cheese

• 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste

Optional Topping

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
• Chopped fresh parsley

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the meatloaf: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Bake the meatloaf: Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Bake for about 25–30 minutes.
3. Cook the macaroni: Meanwhile, boil macaroni according to package directions until just tender. Drain well.
4. Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook until slightly thickened.
5. Reduce the heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, pepper, and a little salt until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine: Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
7. Add the mac and cheese: Carefully spoon the macaroni and cheese over the partially baked meatloaf. Spread evenly.
8. Top and finish baking: Sprinkle with additional cheddar and Parmesan. Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) internally and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Rest for 5–10 minutes, garnish with parsley, slice, and serve.

💡 Pro Tips

• Don’t overmix the meatloaf or it can become dense.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest cheese sauce.
• For extra flavor, add crispy cooked bacon to the mac and cheese.
• Let the casserole rest before slicing so the layers hold together better.
• Ground turkey can be substituted for beef if desired.

❤️ Description

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole brings together everything you love about classic comfort food in one irresistible dish. The savory, tender meatloaf forms the hearty base while creamy homemade mac and cheese creates a rich, cheesy topping. It’s an easy family dinner that feels extra special without requiring complicated ingredients.