Mac Cheese Meatloaf Dish

This Mac Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the perfect cozy dish when you want the comfort of meatloaf with the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese all in one easy bake. It’s a one-pan meal that makes weeknights feel special without demanding too much time or fancy ingredients.

I tossed this together when craving something hearty but fuss-free. It quickly became a favorite dinner that everyone looks forward to.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: forms the hearty base. Choose fresh, good quality beef with some fat for juiciness
• Breadcrumbs and milk: keep the meatloaf tender and moist for a perfect texture
• Onion and garlic: build foundational savory flavors that make every bite satisfying
• Worcestershire sauce and ketchup: add tang and depth for classic meatloaf taste
• Elbow macaroni: holds the cheese sauce nicely; pick a small elbow shape for best layering
• Cheddar cheese: gives sharpness and gooey texture. Fresh shredded cheese melts best
• Butter and flour: create the roux that thickens the sauce. Use real butter for richness
• Milk: makes the cheese sauce creamy. Whole milk gives the best velvety finish
• Mustard powder: adds a subtle tang and layers flavor if you decide to include it

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 180 degrees Celsius and lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks. This preheating step means your meatloaf starts baking right away and cooks evenly.

Prepare the Meatloaf Base:

In a large bowl mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Stir gently until just combined to keep the mixture tender. Press into the baking dish as even as you can to ensure uniform cooking.

Bake the Meatloaf:

Place the dish in the oven for 15 minutes to set the base. This step starts cooking the meatloaf while you prepare the creamy topping.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a saucepan melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook for one to two minutes while stirring to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and keep stirring until the sauce thickens to a smooth consistency, about three to four minutes. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Add mustard powder if using and season with salt and pepper.

Combine Pasta with Cheese Sauce:

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, drain, then toss immediately in the cheese sauce so every piece is coated in gooey goodness.

Assemble the Casserole:

Pull the meatloaf base from the oven and carefully spread the cheesy macaroni over the top in an even layer. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top for a beautifully golden crust.

Final Bake:

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown all over.

Rest Before Serving:

Let the casserole sit for five minutes before slicing. This resting time allows juices to redistribute and the cheese to firm up just enough for perfect portions. Serve with a crisp salad or steamed veggies.

Cheddar cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it melts so beautifully and delivers that classic mac and cheese flavor that everyone can’t resist. Honestly this dish always brings back memories of chilled winter evenings at my family table, warming up after a long day.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through but be careful not to dry it out.

Ingredient swaps

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef but may need a bit more seasoning to boost flavor. For a vegetarian version use lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. Try sharp Monterey Jack or smoked gouda for a cheese twist.

Serving ideas

Pair with a fresh green salad to lighten the meal or steamed broccoli to add color and nutrients. A side of roasted vegetables also adds nice texture and a pop of flavor contrast.

This casserole balances hearty and creamy perfectly for a satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of ground meat works best for this dish?

Ground beef with moderate fat content (around 15-20%) keeps the meatloaf moist and flavorful while cooking evenly in the casserole.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta for the mac and cheese topping?

Yes, small shapes like shells or cavatappi can be used as they hold the cheese sauce well and maintain texture during baking.

→ How do I prevent the mac and cheese from becoming dry after baking?

Preparing a creamy cheese sauce and ensuring the macaroni is well coated before topping the meat layer keeps the casserole moist and rich.

→ Is it possible to prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the meat mixture and cook the macaroni in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving for freshest results.

→ What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

Fresh salads or steamed vegetables complement the richness of the casserole, balancing the hearty flavors with lighter, crisp elements.