Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love classic comfort foods, this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole will quickly become a favorite. The cheesy, creamy macaroni contrasts perfectly with the savory, juicy meatloaf, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors. It’s a great option for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Plus, the casserole can be customized with your favorite cheese, spices, and add-ins, making it versatile for various tastes.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 egg

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup milk

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon flour

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into a loaf. Place the meatloaf in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.

3. Bake the meatloaf for about 45 minutes or until fully cooked and browned on the outside.

4. While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

5. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to make a roux.

6. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

7. Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Add the paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.

8. Once the meatloaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Add the cooked macaroni to the casserole dish with the crumbled meatloaf.

9. Pour the cheese sauce over the meatloaf and macaroni, stirring gently to combine. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top (if using).

10. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

11. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 1 hour

• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat or lentils as a substitute for beef to make a vegetarian version of this casserole.

• Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or even a sharp blue cheese for a more complex flavor.

• Spicy Version: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture or cheese sauce for an extra kick.

• Topping Ideas: You can top the casserole with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead. Simply refrigerate it before baking, and bake it when ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole. After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap elbow macaroni for other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells, depending on your preference.

How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

To ensure the meatloaf is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 160°F (71°C).

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, you can add diced vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the casserole for added nutrition and flavor.

How can I make the casserole spicier?

Add a bit of chili powder, red pepper flakes, or jalapeños to the meat mixture or cheese sauce to give it a spicy kick.

Can I use pre-cooked macaroni for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked macaroni to save time. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as the macaroni will not need to be cooked as long.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

To make the casserole gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free pasta like rice or corn pasta.

Can I use a slow cooker to make this casserole?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker for this recipe. After assembling, cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the meatloaf is fully cooked.

Conclusion

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the best of both worlds: creamy mac and cheese and savory meatloaf. Perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping, this casserole is easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a hearty weekend meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy.