Irresistibly Cozy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Creamy mac and cheese meatloaf casserole promises a comforting twist on classic dinner favorites.

Layers of savory ground beef blend perfectly with cheesy pasta goodness.

Hearty ingredients come together in one satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug.

Families crave this simple yet indulgent meal that combines two beloved comfort foods.

Rich flavors and textures create a memorable dining experience everyone will love.

Cheese lovers and meat enthusiasts unite for this incredible culinary creation.

You won’t be able to resist digging into this delightful casserole that brings maximum satisfaction to the dinner table.

Ingredients Needed for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Ground Beef: A rich protein foundation that provides a hearty flavor to the meatloaf.
• Ground Pork: Adds extra moisture and depth to the meat mixture.
• Egg: Helps bind the meat ingredients together and keeps the meatloaf cohesive.

• Breadcrumbs: Creates structure and helps absorb moisture in the meatloaf.
• Milk: Adds softness and helps blend the meatloaf ingredients smoothly.

• Onion, Garlic Powder, Oregano: Provide aromatic and savory notes to the meat mixture.
• Ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness to the meatloaf base.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste.

• Butter: Creates a rich base for the cheese sauce.
• Flour: Helps thicken the sauce and create a smooth texture.
• Milk: Forms the liquid base of the cheese sauce.

• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp and classic cheese flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a creamy and stretchy texture to the sauce.
• Mustard Powder, Paprika: Adds depth and complexity to the cheese sauce.

• Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta that serves as the foundation for the mac and cheese layer.

• Breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy texture to the casserole surface.

How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Step 1: Mixing Meaty Goodness

• Ground beef
• Ground pork
• Breadcrumbs
• Milk
• Ketchup
• Chopped onion
• Egg
• Garlic powder
• Oregano
• Salt
• Pepper

Thoroughly combine all ingredients until they form a uniform mixture.

Step 2: Shaping Your Masterpiece

Transfer the meat mixture into a greased baking dish, carefully molding it into a perfect loaf shape. Slide the dish into an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Pasta Preparation

While the meatloaf cooks, boil elbow macaroni according to package directions. Cook until the pasta reaches al dente perfection, then drain and set aside.

Step 4: Crafting Creamy Cheese Sauce

• Mustard powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Pepper

Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until the sauce becomes silky and smooth.

Step 5: Uniting Pasta and Cheese

Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle gets a creamy coating.

Step 6: Building the Ultimate Casserole

After 30 minutes, pull the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly across the top. Sprinkle with additional cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.

Step 7: Final Baking Flourish

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the top turns golden and bubbly.

Step 8: Serving Up Comfort

Allow the casserole to cool slightly before diving in. Get ready to experience a mouthwatering blend of meaty and cheesy goodness!

Helpful Advice for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Elevate your meatloaf game with these expert tips. Blend ground beef and pork for a richer, more complex flavor profile that keeps the meat tender and juicy. Grate fresh garlic instead of using powder to intensify the aromatic depth in your dish. Prevent dry meatloaf by avoiding overmixing the meat mixture and using a light touch when combining ingredients. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to boost umami and create a more complex taste that complements the cheesy mac layer. Sprinkle extra sharp cheddar on top for a crispy, golden crust that adds irresistible texture and intense cheese flavor.

Variations to Explore with Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Spicy Southwest Kick: Replace oregano with chili powder and add diced jalapeños to the meatloaf mixture. Mix in pepper jack cheese for extra heat in the mac and cheese sauce.
• Mediterranean Style: Incorporate ground lamb instead of beef/pork. Add feta cheese to the mac and cheese sauce and mix in chopped fresh parsley and mint into the meatloaf base.
• Smoky BBQ Version: Mix barbecue sauce into the meatloaf instead of ketchup. Swap some cheddar for smoked gouda in the cheese sauce and sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top before final baking.
• Vegetable Boost: Fold roasted bell peppers and spinach into the mac and cheese layer. Include grated zucchini in the meatloaf mixture to increase nutrition and add extra moisture.

Pairing Suggestions for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Pair with Bold Red Wine: Uncork a robust Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to complement the rich, meaty flavors of the casserole, cutting through the creamy cheese and adding depth to each bite.
• Serve with Crisp Green Salad: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heaviness of the dish, providing a fresh and zesty contrast to the rich mac and cheese meatloaf.
• Enhance with Tangy Pickles: Add a side of dill pickles or quick-pickled vegetables to introduce a sharp, acidic element that helps cleanse the palate between bites of the hearty casserole.

Proper Storage for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the casserole is completely cooled before sealing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track storage time.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Add a splash of milk to restore moisture if needed.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Cover casserole with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.

FAQs About Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• Can I use different types of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef and pork with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just ensure the meat is fresh and properly ground.

• Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate before baking. Simply cover tightly and bake when ready to serve, adding 5-10 extra minutes to cooking time.

• How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and replace regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend when making the cheese sauce. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Why Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Is a Comfort Food Staple

• Simplify Dinner Prep: Combine two classic comfort foods into one mouthwatering dish, eliminating the need to cook separate meals and saving precious kitchen time.
• Crowd-Pleasing Combination: Merge the rich, meaty goodness of meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy delight of mac and cheese, creating an irresistible meal that satisfies both kids and adults.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Deliver a hearty, nutritious meal packed with protein and cheesy goodness that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds, making mealtime a joyful experience.
• Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by switching cheese types, adding herbs, or incorporating extra vegetables to suit your family's taste preferences and dietary needs.

Heartwarming Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 65-70 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comfort cuisine reaches new heights with this mac and cheese meatloaf casserole, blending classic American flavors into one irresistible dish. Cheesy, hearty layers promise a satisfying meal that brings warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef
• 0.5 pound (1/2 lb) ground pork

Binding and Moisture Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Craft the meat base by blending ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, onion, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl until thoroughly incorporated.
2. Mold the meat mixture into a compact loaf shape within a greased baking dish, ensuring even distribution.
3. Slide the baking dish into a preheated 375F (190C) oven and roast the meatloaf for precisely 30 minutes.
4. During the meatloaf’s cooking time, prepare elbow macaroni according to package guidelines, aiming for al dente texture, then drain and reserve.
5. Construct the cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then introducing flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring consistently until the mixture thickens.
6. Enhance the sauce with mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and fold in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until achieving a smooth, creamy consistency.
7. Integrate the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring complete and even coating.
8. Extract the partially cooked meatloaf from the oven and lavishly spread the mac and cheese mixture across its surface.
9. Embellish the casserole with an additional sprinkle of cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor.
10. Return the casserole to the 375F (190C) oven for 15-20 minutes, targeting a golden, bubbling top.
11. Allow the casserole to rest briefly before serving, enabling flavors to meld and ensuring easier portioning.

Notes

• Customize the meat blend by using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still packs incredible flavor.
• Enhance the cheese sauce’s richness by adding a splash of heavy cream or mixing in different cheese varieties like gouda or gruyère for more depth.
• Boost nutritional value by incorporating finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the meatloaf mixture for added nutrients and color.
• Create a crispy topping by using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs and adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra crunch and flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 362 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 23 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 29 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg