DINNER

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Chef Olivia

December 10, 2025
4 min read

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Quick glance

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole mixes meatloaf and macaroni and cheese in one dish. It is warm, cheesy, and easy to make. If you like hearty casseroles, you may also enjoy Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole.

introduction

This dish layers cooked macaroni and cheesy sauce with a seasoned meatloaf mix. It bakes into a bubbly, golden top. It is good for weeknights and for feeding a family.

why make this recipe

Make this recipe because it is simple and filling. It uses basic ingredients and gives you two favorites in one pan: mac and cheese and meatloaf. You can finish the meal with a light dessert like Almond Meringue Sandwich Cookies if you want something sweet.

how to make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Ingredients :

1 lb ground beef
1 cup macaroni pasta
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
1 cup milk
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
In a separate bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with milk and half of the shredded cheese.
In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the macaroni mixture, followed by the meatloaf mixture, and then top with the remaining macaroni.
Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the top is golden and bubbly.
Let cool slightly before serving.

You can also serve this with sandwiches or other sides like Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches if you want extra variety.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

how to serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Let it rest 5 to 10 minutes so it firms up a bit. Cut into squares and serve on plates. A fresh salad works well with it. For a fun side, try bagels or a warm bread like Bacon Cream Cheese Bagels on the side if you want something different.

how to store Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Cool the casserole to room temperature.
Cover tightly with foil or store in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, wrap well and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave in portions.

tips to make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Do not overmix the meat to keep it tender.
Use a good melting cheese for best texture.
Drain the pasta well so the casserole does not get too soupy.
Let the casserole rest before cutting so it holds shape.
Taste and add salt and pepper to the meat mix before baking.

variation (if any)

Use ground turkey or pork instead of beef.
Add cooked vegetables like peas, corn, or diced bell pepper.
Stir in a spoon of tomato sauce to the meat mix for extra flavor.
Swap cheeses: mix cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for spice.

FAQs

Q: Can I use dried herbs or spices in the meat?
A: Yes. Add dried oregano, thyme, or a little paprika for more taste.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble and cover, then refrigerate for a few hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to bake.

Q: How do I know the meat is cooked?
A: The center should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef, or until juices run clear and no pink remains.

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes. Small shapes like penne or shells work fine if you prefer them.