Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole 🧀🥩🍝
The ultimate comfort food mashup! Creamy mac & cheese baked right into juicy, flavorful meatloaf—this is a next-level family favorite.
Why You’ll Love It
✔ Two classics in one – No need to choose between mac & cheese or meatloaf!
✔ Feeds a crowd – Perfect for potlucks or meal prep.
✔ Kid-approved – Cheesy, savory, and totally addictive.
Ingredients *(Serves 6-8)*
For the Meatloaf
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1.5 lbs ground beef (or 50/50 beef + pork for extra moisture)
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1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
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1 small onion, finely diced
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1 egg, beaten
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1/4 cup ketchup + extra for glaze
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp salt & pepper
For the Mac & Cheese
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2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp flour
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2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan
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1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional, for tang)
Topping
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (for extra meltiness)
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1/4 cup buttered breadcrumbs (optional crunch)
Instructions
1. Prep the Meatloaf Base
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In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and spices until combined.
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Press into a 9×13-inch baking dish, forming a “crust” along the bottom and sides (leave a well in the center for mac & cheese).
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Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 mins (while you make the mac & cheese).
2. Make the Mac & Cheese
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Cook pasta al dente, drain.
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In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour to make a roux.
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Slowly add milk, whisking until thickened (~5 mins).
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Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and mustard powder until smooth. Fold in cooked macaroni.
3. Assemble & Bake
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Pour mac & cheese into the partially baked meatloaf crust.
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Top with mozzarella (and breadcrumbs if using).
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Bake 20-25 mins until bubbly and golden.
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Let rest 10 mins before slicing.
Pro Tips
🔥 Extra flavor – Add diced bacon or jalapeños to the meatloaf mix.
🍝 Crispier top – Broil for 2-3 mins at the end.
🍽 Serve with – Garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a simple salad.
This is the definition of comfort food! Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a big hug on a plate. 😋
(P.S. Leftovers reheat like a dream—if there are any!)