Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup

Cheesy, Savory, and Hearty All-in-One Dinner

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the best of both worlds—rich, meaty meatloaf on the bottom and creamy, gooey macaroni and cheese layered on top. This family-friendly casserole is the definition of comfort food. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you need a cozy, satisfying meal that everyone will devour.

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Ingredients for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

For the Meatloaf Layer:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)

For the Mac and Cheese Layer:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional for color)

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How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Meatloaf

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, and ketchup. Mix until just combined. Press evenly into the bottom of the baking dish.

Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf mixture. Bake for 25–30 minutes while you prepare the macaroni and cheese.

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Step 2: Make the Mac and Cheese

Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and stir until thickened. Add cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until cheese is melted and smooth.

Mix cheese sauce with the drained macaroni.

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Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Carefully spread the mac and cheese over the cooked meatloaf layer. Sprinkle with extra cheese if desired.

Return to oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Casserole

• Two classic comfort foods in one dish
• Easy to make and family-approved
• Great for leftovers and meal prep
• Cheesy, hearty, and ultra-satisfying
• Freezer-friendly and customizable

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Tasty Variations

• Add bacon to the mac and cheese for smoky flavor
• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version
• Stir in veggies like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition
• Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crispy finish
• Spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce in the cheese sauce

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk
• Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months

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Final Thoughts

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food combo. With savory meatloaf and creamy mac layered into one dish, it’s an easy dinner win every time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving something cheesy and warm, this casserole delivers full flavor and full bellies.

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