Introduction

This Mac Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a comforting twist on two classic favorites. Combining savory meatloaf with creamy mac and cheese, it’s perfect for a hearty family dinner. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a weeknight staple.

The image shows a close-up of a layered baked pasta dish with at least three visible layers. The bottom layer is a rich, dark brown cooked ground meat mixture that looks juicy and slightly saucy. Above it, there is a thick layer of cooked macaroni pasta, pale yellow with a soft, smooth texture, tightly packed together. On top of the macaroni is a thick, melted orange cheese layer, slightly bubbling and browned in spots, giving a gooey and creamy look. The dish is garnished with finely chopped fresh green herbs scattered on top. The food sits on a white plate against a white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

500 g ground beef
50 g breadcrumbs
60 ml milk
1 egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
60 ml ketchup
200 g elbow macaroni, cooked according to package instructions
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
480 ml whole milk
200 g shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Mix until just combined. Press the meat mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form a flat layer.
Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes while preparing the mac and cheese topping.
Step 4: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Step 5: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add mustard powder if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Toss the cooked macaroni in the cheese sauce until well coated.
Step 7: Remove the meatloaf base from the oven. Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the meatloaf. Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for a golden crust.
Step 8: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 9: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture.
Use a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella and cheddar for a gooier topping.
If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meat option.
To make it spicier, mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 160°C until warmed through to maintain the creamy texture and crispy cheese topping. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up shot of a layered dish served in a white bowl on a white marbled surface. The dish has three visible layers: the bottom layer is made of soft elbow macaroni pasta soaked in a rich orange sauce, the middle layer is dense and filled with seasoned ground beef, and the top layer is covered with melted golden-yellow cheese that drips down the sides, with small fresh green herb pieces sprinkled on top for garnish. The textures show the smooth sauce and gooey cheese contrasting with the chunky meat and pasta beneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use small shells, penne, or any bite-sized pasta you have on hand. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente before mixing with the cheese sauce.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole up to the step before baking the mac and cheese topping. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then add the mac and cheese and bake as directed.