Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

History

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a fusion of two American comfort food legends — classic meatloaf (dating back to the Great Depression, when stretching ground meat with bread crumbs became popular) and creamy macaroni and cheese (beloved since the 1800s). This casserole merges both, creating the perfect “family meal” — hearty, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying. It became popular in the 2000s as a creative way to reinvent leftovers, but it’s now a staple in many homes all on its own.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf Layer:

• 1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
• ½ lb (225 g) ground pork (optional, for richness)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
• ½ cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional but adds flavor)

For the Mac and Cheese Layer:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika

Optional Topping:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Layer

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak for 5 minutes.
3. Add ground beef, pork, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, paprika, parsley, and mustard powder.
4. Mix gently with your hands until combined — don’t overmix, or it’ll become tough.
5. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, forming a firm, even layer.
6. Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top.
7. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the meat is mostly cooked through but not dry.

Step 2: Make the Mac and Cheese

1. While the meatloaf bakes, cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux.
3. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth and thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
4. Reduce heat to low, and add 2 cups cheddar and 1 cup mozzarella. Stir until melted and creamy.
5. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
6. Stir in the cooked macaroni until evenly coated with the cheese sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven (drain off any excess grease if necessary).
2. Spread the cheesy macaroni mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer.
3. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese on top.

Step 4: Add Optional Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan.
2. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole for a crunchy finish.

Step 5: Bake It All Together

1. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and the topping is golden.
2. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving so everything holds together nicely.

Tips & Variations

• Spicy version: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
• Loaded version: Mix cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms into the mac and cheese.
• Healthier twist: Use lean ground turkey and whole-grain pasta.
• Extra cheesy: Add a handful of Monterey Jack or Colby cheese for a flavor boost.

Benefits

• High in protein: Perfect for growing kids and athletes.
• Comfort food favorite: Combines two beloved dishes into one.
• Customizable: You can adjust the flavors, spice level, or cheese type to your liking.
• Great for meal prep: Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with:

• A crisp green salad
• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls

Storage**

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave portions until hot.
• Can be frozen (tightly wrapped) for up to 2 months.

conclusion

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is pure comfort in a dish — the savory richness of meatloaf paired with creamy, gooey macaroni and cheese. It’s hearty, satisfying, and nostalgic — a true family-favorite dinner that turns any evening into something special. Whether for Sunday dinner or a weeknight treat, this casserole always brings smiles (and second servings!).