Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Two classic favorites baked together into one cozy, crowd-pleasing dish
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
Meatloaf Layer
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 cup bread crumbs (plain or seasoned)
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 teaspoon onion powder or ½ small onion, finely grated
Mac & Cheese Layer
1 cup dry macaroni noodles
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp works best)
½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra melt)
1 cup milk or light cream
Topping
1 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for balance)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Macaroni
Bring salted water to a boil.
Cook macaroni until just al dente (slightly firm).
Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Lightly grease a medium baking dish (9×13 or similar).
3️⃣ Make the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Bread crumbs
Eggs
Milk
Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion
Mix gently with your hands until just combined (don’t overmix).
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the baking dish.
4️⃣ Build the Mac & Cheese Layer
Spread the cooked macaroni evenly over the meatloaf layer.
Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella on top.
Slowly pour 1 cup milk over the pasta so it seeps through.
5️⃣ Add the Classic Topping
In a small bowl, mix:
Ketchup
Mustard (optional)
Brown sugar (optional)
Spread evenly over the top.
6️⃣ Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes
Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes
Cheese should be bubbly and the meat fully cooked (internal temp 160°F / 71°C)
7️⃣ Rest & Serve
Let the casserole rest 10 minutes before slicing
This helps it hold together beautifully
Optional Flavor Boosts
Add cooked bacon bits to the mac layer
Use smoked cheddar or pepper jack cheese
Add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes
Swap beef for half beef + half turkey
Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for crunch
Serving Suggestions
Fresh green salad
Steamed broccoli or green beans
Pickles or coleslaw
Mashed potatoes for ultimate comfort
Why You’ll Love It
Ultra-comforting and filling
Kid-friendly and family-approved
Perfect for meal prep
Even better the next day
