Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup
Mac and cheese meatloaf casserole brings together creamy macaroni and cheese with hearty meatloaf layers for the ultimate cozy family dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meatloaf Layer
1 lb ground beef
½ cup diced onion
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Mac and Cheese Layer
2 cups uncooked macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dry mustard
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Press meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 20 minutes.
While the meatloaf bakes, cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in milk until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard.
Stir in most of the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the meatloaf layer and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
Return to the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.
Let rest briefly before slicing and serving.
Notes
Swap cheddar for Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a sharp white cheddar for variety.
Add peas, corn, or sautéed spinach to the mac and cheese for extra color and nutrition.
Letting the casserole rest 5–10 minutes helps it slice cleanly.
