Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Update : November 25, 2025

Why Make This Recipe

Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a delightful twist on two classic comfort foods. This dish combines the savory flavors of meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners and is sure to please both kids and adults alike. It’s easy to prepare and provides a hearty meal in one dish, making clean-up a breeze!

How to Make Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
2 cups uncooked macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1/4 cup milk (for meatloaf)
2 tbsp butter (for cheese sauce)
2 cups milk (for cheese sauce)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dry mustard
2 tbsp flour

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, salt, and pepper; mix well.
Press the meat mixture into a greased baking dish.
Bake the meatloaf for 20 minutes.
Cook the macaroni according to package directions, then drain.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for one minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring until the mixture thickens.
Add salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard to the sauce. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce.
After the meatloaf has baked for 20 minutes, pour the macaroni and cheese over it.
Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Slice and serve warm.

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How to Serve Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Serve this dish warm, and consider adding a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also offer additional toppings, like hot sauce or extra cheese, to let everyone customize their portions!

How to Store Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Make sure to mix the meatloaf ingredients well to ensure even cooking.
Use different types of cheese for the cheese sauce, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to add variety.
Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should be slightly underdone since it will cook more in the oven.

Variation

Feel free to add vegetables like peas or spinach to the macaroni and cheese for added nutrition. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf and cheese sauce in advance, assemble the dish, and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake.

Q: Is it possible to use gluten-free pasta?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute gluten-free macaroni to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Q: What can I do with leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven. For a fun twist, try making a grilled cheese sandwich using the leftovers!