Can I prepare Mac and Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. And cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate.

Can I freeze mac and cheese meatloaf casserole?

Absolutely. To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap the dish securely in foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to three months.

How can I make the mac and cheese meatloaf casserole healthier?

For a lighter version, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, whole wheat pasta, and low-fat cheese.

Can I make mac and cheese meatloaf casserole spicy?

Yes! Add a dash of cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture or cheese sauce for a spicy kick.

Perfect Mac And Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Description

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines two comfort food favorites into one delicious dish! A hearty, flavorful meatloaf base topped with creamy, cheesy macaroni makes this a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatloaf:

1 ½ lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 egg
½ cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ cup ketchup (for topping)

For the Mac and Cheese:

8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta of choice)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

Optional Toppings:

½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (for extra cheesiness)
¼ cup breadcrumbs for a crispy topping

Instructions

Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Meatloaf Layer:
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Spread ½ cup ketchup over the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the meatloaf is nearly cooked through.
Make the Mac and Cheese:
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Cook until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and mustard powder.
- Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Once the meatloaf is mostly cooked, spread the mac and cheese evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle extra cheese and breadcrumbs (if using) over the top.
Bake Again:
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole!

Notes

You can swap ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add cooked bacon or hot sauce to the mac and cheese for extra flavor.
Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Category: Casserole, Comfort Food
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 520 kcal
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Mac and cheese casserole, meatloaf casserole, cheesy meatloaf, comfort food, family dinner, cheesy pasta bake