Description

Cozy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty, all-in-one comfort food dish that blends creamy macaroni and cheese with rich, flavorful meatloaf. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this casserole offers layers of cheesy goodness, savory meat, and satisfying textures baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Layer

1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup ketchup or tomato sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika

Pasta and Cheese Sauce

2 cups elbow macaroni
3 tbsp butter
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prep the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside to ensure the pasta will hold its shape after baking.
Make the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix gently but thoroughly, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep it tender.
Cook the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add milk and gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. This creamy cheese sauce will coat the macaroni beautifully.
Assemble the Casserole: Grease a baking dish and spread the meatloaf mixture evenly on the bottom. Layer the cooked macaroni over the meatloaf, then pour the cheese sauce evenly on top, ensuring every bit of pasta is coated.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes, until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese topping is bubbly and golden. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use sharp cheddar for a bold cheese flavor that complements the meatloaf perfectly.
Avoid overmixing the meatloaf ingredients to keep the texture tender instead of dense.
Drain pasta thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole.
Let the casserole rest after baking to allow it to set and make serving easier.
Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for even cooking and nice browning.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 28 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: mac and cheese, meatloaf casserole, comfort food, baked casserole, family dinner, creamy mac and cheese, easy recipe