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MAC AND CHEESE MEATLOAF CASSEROLE

Sana Umer
This hearty Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines two classic comfort foods into one cheesy, meaty, crowd-pleasing dish. Perfect for family dinners, it’s rich, filling, and easy to prepare with pantry staples.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 serves
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf Base:

  • 1½ lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk warm
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional Topping:
  • ½ cup shredded cheese
  • Chopped parsley or green onions

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven:

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Make the Meatloaf Layer:

  • In a large bowl, combine all meatloaf ingredients. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Bake Meatloaf Base:

  • Bake for 20–25 minutes or until mostly cooked through. Remove from oven and carefully drain any grease.

Cook the Pasta:

  • While the meatloaf bakes, cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

  • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in warm milk until smooth and thickened. Stir in shredded cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Casserole:

  • Spread the cooked macaroni over the baked meatloaf layer. Pour the cheese sauce on top and spread evenly.

Bake Again:

  • Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired. Return to the oven and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Serve:

  • Let rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with parsley or green onions before serving.

Notes

Make Ahead: Prepare both layers and refrigerate unbaked up to 1 day ahead.
Shortcut: Use boxed mac and cheese for quicker prep.
Add Veggies: Mix in peas or spinach to the mac for extra nutrition.
Freezing: Freeze fully baked casserole; reheat covered at 350°F until heated through.
Customise: Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a cheesy twist.
Keyword cheesy meatloaf bake, family dinner casserole, mac and cheese meatloaf casserole, meatloaf mac casserole