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Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

A comforting baked dish featuring a rich meatloaf center topped with creamy mac and cheese, perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf Base

  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs helps bind the meatloaf and adds texture
  • 1 large egg for structure and moisture
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped sweet and fragrant when cooked
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced adds savory depth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for umami richness (or soy sauce as a substitute)

Mac and Cheese Mixture

  • 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni (about 8 ounces dry) classic shape for mac and cheese
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or a mix of cheddar and Gruyere for a more sophisticated flavor
  • 1 cup milk whole milk makes it creamier; use unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free
  • 2 tablespoons butter richness and glossy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour thickens the cheese sauce

Optional Toppings

  • 1/2 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce for a glossy meatloaf topping

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
  • Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente; drain and set aside.
  • In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion in a tablespoon of butter until translucent, then add garlic and cook another 30 seconds. Let this cool slightly.

Assembling the Casserole

  • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  • Press half of the meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish to form a base layer.
  • In a saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter and whisk in flour to make a roux, then slowly pour in milk while whisking to avoid lumps, and stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until every bite is coated. Spoon the mac and cheese mixture over the meatloaf base in the dish.
  • Crumble the remaining meat mixture and gently press it over the mac and cheese layer, sealing the edges. Smooth the top.
  • Spread ketchup or barbecue sauce on top, if using. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheese on top.

Cooking

  • Bake for 35–40 minutes until the meat is cooked through and the top is golden.
  • Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce; don't overmix the meatloaf layer.
Keyword Baked Dish, Comfort Food, Family Meal, Mac and Cheese, Meatloaf Casserole