Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe – Easy, Delicious Comfort Food

If you’re a fan of comfort food, you’re going to love this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. Imagine the savory, juicy flavors of a classic meatloaf paired with the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese—all in one dish! This casserole takes two of the best-loved American comfort foods and turns them into one delicious, hearty meal that the whole family will adore.

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

I first discovered this amazing recipe through the Facebook page Recipes by Lisa, and I knew I had to try it immediately. It's one of those dishes that brings back childhood memories, blending the nostalgic taste of meatloaf with everyone’s favorite, creamy mac and cheese. The result is a flavor-packed casserole that's perfect for a cozy family dinner, or even a special weekend treat.

A Fun Twist on Tradition

This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole has roots in two iconic American dishes. Meatloaf, with its savory, hearty flavors, became a popular dish during the 19th century in the United States, particularly during tough economic times because it could stretch ingredients further. Mac and cheese, on the other hand, has been a comfort food staple since the 1800s, made famous by its simple yet rich cheese sauce and pasta combo. When these two favorites are combined, you get a meal that's filling, delicious, and soul-soothing.

How to Make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup milk (for pasta)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk (for cheese sauce)
• 1/2 tsp paprika

Directions:

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well.
2. Shape and Bake: Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish and press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom to form your meatloaf layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the meatloaf is nearly cooked through.
3. Cook the Macaroni: While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir to create a roux, cooking for about a minute. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups of milk and cook until thickened. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika for that extra flavor kick.
5. Assemble the Casserole: After the meatloaf has finished its first round of baking, remove it from the oven. Spread the cooked macaroni over the top of the meatloaf layer. Then, pour the cheesy sauce over the macaroni, making sure to cover it all.
6. Final Bake: Place the assembled casserole back into the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
7. Serve: Once it's out of the oven, let the casserole cool slightly before slicing and serving. You’re left with a dish that’s hearty, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit!

Cooking Tips:

• Add a crunchy topping: For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before the final bake.
• Make it spicy: Want to give it a kick? Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, swap the meatloaf base with a meatless alternative like plant-based ground "beef" or lentil loaf.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this casserole with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. A glass of iced tea or lemonade would complement the hearty flavors perfectly!

Did you enjoy this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole recipe? Let me know in the comments if you tried it out or made your own variations! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and follow me for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes.