Go Back
+ servings
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: Comfort Food Reimagined

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole combines creamy pasta and savory meatloaf for ultimate comfort, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Meatloaf
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or plant-based options.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chopped; optional.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Panko can be used for crunch.
  • 1 none Egg Can replace with a flax egg for vegan option.
  • 1/4 cup Milk Almond or oat milk as dairy-free substitute.
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Pepper
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Butter Margarine can be used as dairy-free substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Flour Gluten-free flour can be used.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika for an elevated flavor.
  • 1 tsp Dry Mustard Mustard powder can be substituted.
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheese Mix of cheddar and gouda recommended.
  • 8 oz Macaroni Cook until just al dente.

Equipment

  • baking dish
  • Mixing Bowl
  • saucepan
  • Pot for boiling pasta

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and press into a greased baking dish.
  3. Bake for 20 minutes, until slightly set but not fully cooked.
  4. Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, around 6–8 minutes, then drain.
  5. In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk and whisk until thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard.
  6. Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheese until fully melted and creamy.
  7. Fold the macaroni into the cheese sauce and evenly pour over the meatloaf in the baking dish.
  8. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until cheese is golden.
  9. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Opt for fresh ingredients and generously season for a better flavor. Allowing the dish to rest helps in serving.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!