Name: Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or beef/pork blend); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; ½ cup finely chopped onion; 2 garlic cloves (minced); 2 tbsp ketchup or BBQ sauce; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 8 oz elbow macaroni (or other short pasta); 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup extra shredded cheese; ¼ cup breadcrumbs

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If you’re torn between making a cheesy mac and cheese or a hearty meatloaf for dinner—why not do both? This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole brings two comfort food classics together in one unbelievably satisfying dish. It’s cozy, indulgent, and perfect for when you want something a little extra without a ton of extra effort.

I first made this on a whim after a chilly fall day when my family couldn’t decide between meatloaf and mac. The result? A new weeknight staple that now makes an appearance at least twice a month. It’s also my go-to when I want to bring a dish to a potluck or feed a crowd. The bottom layer is juicy, flavorful meatloaf; the top is creamy mac and cheese, baked to golden perfection.

Whether you’re cooking for your kids, hosting friends, or just treating yourself—this casserole hits the spot every time. It’s bold, cheesy, and guaranteed to be a repeat favorite.

What Is Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is exactly what it sounds like: a layered dish that combines a savory meatloaf base with a rich, creamy macaroni and cheese topping. It’s baked in a casserole dish so that the flavors meld together beautifully in every bite.

At its core, the recipe starts with a classic meatloaf mixture—usually ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings—pressed into the bottom of a baking pan. It’s baked just enough to firm up before the second act: a decadent layer of homemade (or boxed) mac and cheese.

Once the pasta goes on top, the casserole heads back into the oven to get bubbly and golden, with those irresistible browned edges where the cheese meets the pan. The contrast of textures—soft meat, creamy pasta, and crisped top—makes every forkful a treat.

This dish truly is the best of both worlds. It’s comforting, nostalgic, and a little indulgent. You get the robust flavor of meatloaf and the melty goodness of baked mac and cheese, all in one sliceable, shareable casserole.

Ingredients Overview & Key Flavor Elements

Here’s what makes this dish shine—it’s simple, flexible, and every ingredient brings serious flavor to the table.

For the meatloaf base, you’ll want ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for more depth), breadcrumbs, eggs, diced onions, garlic, and a dash of Worcestershire or ketchup. The goal is to create a moist but firm layer that holds its shape and adds savory richness.

The mac and cheese layer is where the comfort factor kicks in. Use elbow macaroni or any short pasta shape you like. For the sauce, a basic roux (butter + flour), milk, and sharp cheddar work wonders—but feel free to blend in mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even a touch of cream cheese for extra silkiness.

You can also toss in extras like chopped parsley, paprika, mustard powder, or even a little hot sauce if your crowd enjoys a kick.

Optional add-ins: caramelized onions, sautéed spinach, or bacon bits can elevate the casserole even more.

Pro tip: Balance is key—too much moisture in either layer can make it soggy. Stick to measured portions and let the dish rest before slicing for perfect results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole isn’t just delicious—it’s practical, too.

It’s the kind of dish that makes enough for dinner and leftovers the next day. Meal prep win! You can even bake it in advance, refrigerate it, and reheat slices throughout the week. It’s super freezer-friendly as well.

Families love it because it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—especially with kids who can’t say no to macaroni and cheese. Plus, it’s fully customizable. Want to swap ground turkey or add in smoky BBQ flavor? Go for it. Feel like blending three cheeses into the topping? Yes, please.

Bold flavor tip: Add a little smoked paprika or dry mustard to your cheese sauce. It deepens the taste and gives the dish a subtle, irresistible zing.

Whether you’re serving it on a lazy Sunday or prepping for a busy week, this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is comfort food you can count on.

Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need any fancy kitchen gear—just a few basics:

Large mixing bowls for meat and pasta
A loaf pan or 9×13” baking dish (depending on thickness preference)
Saucepan to prepare the cheese sauce
A good cheese grater for freshly shredded cheese
Optional: aluminum foil to tent the dish if needed

Quick tip: Don’t overmix the meatloaf—handling it too much can make it tough. Mix just until everything is combined, then press it gently into your baking dish.

Step-by-Step Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Assembly Guide

Ready to bring it all together? Here’s how to assemble and bake your casserole:

Step 1 – Make the meatloaf base:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, diced onions, garlic, and seasonings. Mix until just combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased baking dish. Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes—just enough to start cooking and firm it up.

Step 2 – Prepare the macaroni and cheese:
While the meatloaf bakes, cook your pasta until al dente. In a saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour, and whisk to form a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Once thickened, stir in shredded cheese until smooth and creamy. Add your drained pasta to the sauce and stir to coat.

Step 3 – Assemble the casserole:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the top. If desired, sprinkle more shredded cheese or breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.

Step 4 – Final bake:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Optional Step 5 – Broil:
For a crunchy cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.

Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice cleanly.

Delicious Variations for This Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole

This casserole is easy to adapt based on what your family loves or what’s in your pantry. Here are a few creative twists to keep things exciting:

BBQ Twist: Swap the traditional ketchup in your meatloaf mixture with smoky BBQ sauce. It adds a deep, sweet-savory kick and pairs beautifully with cheddar mac.

Spicy Version: Stir chopped jalapeños into the meat or mac and use pepper jack cheese for heat lovers. A little cayenne in the cheese sauce goes a long way too.

Mini Muffin Tin Casseroles: Want to make this kid-friendly or great for portion control? Press the meatloaf base into a muffin tin, bake, then top each with a spoonful of mac and cheese. They’re fun to serve and freeze well!

Vegetarian Version: Ditch the meat altogether and use a seasoned lentil loaf or plant-based meat alternative. Layer with the same mac and cheese on top—still just as hearty and satisfying.

Pro tip: Feel free to get creative with cheese blends—smoked gouda, fontina, or even blue cheese crumbles can bring bold, unexpected flavor to your casserole.

What to Serve With Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

This dish is rich and filling, so pairing it with lighter or crunchy sides balances out the meal.

Fresh veggie sides like a crisp garden salad or roasted broccoli offer a refreshing contrast to the cheesy casserole. You can also try steamed green beans with lemon or sautéed spinach.

For something starchy, crunchy garlic knots or sweet cornbread complement the savory base nicely. A slice of sourdough toast is perfect for scooping up extra cheese sauce.

Dips like ketchup, ranch, or a smoky aioli can be served on the side—especially if you’re making muffin-sized versions or serving kids.

Pro tip: Add a little acidity with pickles or a quick vinegar slaw. That tangy contrast cuts through the richness and brightens every bite.

How to Make a Meatloaf Mac and Cheese Casserole Ahead of Time

This casserole is a dream for make-ahead cooking or freezer prep.

To prep ahead, assemble the full dish—meatloaf base and mac layer—and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for weeknights or meal planning.

Freezing instructions:
You can freeze the fully baked casserole once cooled. Wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Or freeze just the meatloaf base, then add mac and cheese when you’re ready to bake.

Reheating:
Oven is best! Reheat slices or the full casserole at 350°F until warmed through (about 20–25 minutes). Cover loosely with foil to retain moisture.

Important: Always let the casserole cool completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals or mushy texture when reheated.

How to Store and Reheat This Macaroni Meatloaf Bake

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them right.

Transfer cooled slices to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

To reheat, use the microwave for convenience, or the oven for a crisp top and better texture. If microwaving, cover loosely to prevent splatter but avoid trapping steam (which softens the crust).

Pro tip: Reheat uncovered in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes to avoid sogginess and bring back that fresh-from-the-oven texture.

FAQs (Based on People Also Ask)

Can you mix mac and cheese with meatloaf?
Absolutely! That’s exactly what this casserole does. It layers rich, savory meatloaf with creamy mac and cheese, then bakes it into one delicious dish. It’s a fun way to combine two all-time favorites.

What cheese goes best with meatloaf?
Sharp cheddar is the go-to, thanks to its bold flavor and great melting ability. But don’t be afraid to mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a little parmesan for complexity.

How do you keep meatloaf moist in a casserole?
Moisture is key. Use a panade—a mix of breadcrumbs and milk or broth—to keep the meat tender. Also, don’t overwork the meat mixture. And always avoid overbaking the base before adding the mac layer.

Can I use boxed mac and cheese for this?
Yes, and it’s a great shortcut! While homemade sauce is creamier and more flavorful, boxed mac and cheese works well if you’re short on time. Add a splash of cream or extra cheese to boost richness.

Can this be made gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meat mixture and gluten-free pasta for the mac layer. Just check all sauces and cheeses for hidden gluten.

Do kids like this recipe?
It’s a huge hit with kids! The cheesy topping and soft texture make it a familiar favorite, and you can even get creative with shaping or serving smaller portions just for fun.

Final Thoughts & Pro Tips

There’s a reason this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a favorite in so many kitchens—it’s comforting, practical, and packed with flavor.

Experiment boldly with ingredients. Try swapping cheeses, mixing meats, or adding a spice kick. You can adjust the layers to match your mood or pantry, and it always turns out crowd-pleasing.

Pro tip: Grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping freezer meals, this casserole is a go-to recipe worth saving and sharing.

Leave a comment if you try it—I’d love to hear how you made it your own! And remember: this is comfort food at its finest—try it once and it’ll become a family favorite!