Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole for Comfort Cravings

Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is what happens when two of America’s most comforting dinner icons decide to join forces—and honestly, it’s a match made in cheesy, beefy heaven. You get the savory satisfaction of a classic meatloaf, plus the creamy, gooey indulgence of mac and cheese—all layered up in one casserole dish. If dinner had a fan club, this recipe would be president.

Whether you’re wrangling picky eaters, feeding a crowd, or just craving a warm, stick-to-your-ribs meal after a long day, this Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole checks all the boxes. Oh, and if you’re into leftovers? This one reheats like a dream. Keep reading to see why you need this recipe on your weekly rotation.

Table of Contents

What is Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?

Let’s break it down: Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a layered dish that combines two classic comfort foods into one mouthwatering meal. The bottom layer is a traditional beef meatloaf—flavored simply with onion, breadcrumbs, milk, and egg. Then comes the star: a velvety homemade mac and cheese featuring elbow macaroni in a cheddar cheese sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, all jazzed up with a bit of paprika and dry mustard.

Finally, it’s topped off with even more shredded cheddar, because let’s be honest—there’s no such thing as too much cheese. It bakes up into this bubbly, golden-topped casserole that’s hearty, filling, and just over-the-top enough to feel like a treat without being fussy.

Reasons to Try Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

First off, it’s a one-dish wonder. That means less cleanup, which is basically a love language if you’re the one doing the dishes. Second, this casserole is a genius way to satisfy both the meat-and-potatoes crowd and the carb-loving comfort food fans in one go. It’s family-friendly, picky-eater-approved, and customizable—want to sneak in some veggies or swap the beef for turkey? Totally doable. Third, it’s make-ahead friendly, perfect for meal prepping or freezing.

And finally, it just hits the spot. The creamy macaroni balances the savory meatloaf like they were meant to be together all along. It’s not just dinner—it’s a cozy, cheesy hug on a plate.

Ingredients Needed to Make Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup onion, diced
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 2 cups uncooked macaroni
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 cups milk (for cheese sauce)
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dry mustard

Instructions to Make Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Ready to create the ultimate comfort food mashup? Follow this step-by-step guide to make your Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole from scratch. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping ahead, or just craving something ridiculously satisfying, this walk-through has you covered.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and saves time later. While the oven heats up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it thoroughly with butter, oil spray, or even a bit of leftover bacon grease for extra flavor. Greasing the dish helps prevent sticking, especially with the cheesy topping that likes to cling.

Helpful tip: Want to make cleanup easier? Line the bottom with parchment paper or use a foil liner.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Layer

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup diced onion
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

Mix everything with clean hands or a fork, just until combined. Don’t overmix—doing so can make your meatloaf tough. You’re aiming for a texture that holds together but still feels tender when baked.

Once mixed, press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the bottom of your greased dish. You want it packed down firmly enough to form a solid base but not so tight that it turns into a brick. Think of it like setting the foundation for your cheesy castle.

Pro tip: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bit of minced garlic here for a flavor upgrade. You can find more ideas in our beef-based dinner archives.

Step 3: Bake the Meatloaf Layer

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake the meatloaf base for 20 minutes. This gives it a head start so the beef cooks through before the mac and cheese layer is added. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked yet—it’ll go back in the oven later.

While the meatloaf bakes, move on to prepping your mac and cheese. This is where the magic starts to happen.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups of uncooked macaroni and cook until al dente (about 6–7 minutes, but check your package for specifics). You want the pasta slightly firm because it’ll continue cooking in the oven later.

Drain and set aside. You can toss the noodles with a little butter or oil to keep them from sticking together while you prepare the sauce.

Looking for gluten-free pasta ideas? Check our guide on low-carb and gluten-free alternatives for smart swaps.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Cook this for about 1 minute, stirring constantly—it should smell a bit nutty, not raw.

Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk. Keep whisking as the mixture thickens, which usually takes about 5–7 minutes. Once thick and smooth, season with:

• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dry mustard

These spices give your cheese sauce depth and a slight tang that pairs perfectly with the rich meatloaf below. Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and keep stirring until melted and smooth.

Need to substitute milk or cheese? Visit our dairy-free alternatives page for creative swaps that don’t skimp on flavor.

Step 6: Combine Macaroni with Cheese Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to your cheese sauce and gently fold to coat every noodle. The sauce should cling lovingly to the pasta—creamy, not watery. If it seems too thick or dry, stir in another splash of milk to loosen it up.

You’ve just made homemade mac and cheese. Feel free to take a victory bite before moving on.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

Remove your baking dish with the par-baked meatloaf from the oven. Carefully spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over the meatloaf base, smoothing it out with a spatula. Top everything with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar for that golden, bubbly finish.

Want to add crunch? Sprinkle a handful of seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top for bonus texture.

Step 8: Bake Again for the Grand Finale

Pop the dish back into the oven and bake for another 25 minutes. This step allows the meatloaf to finish cooking and the cheese to melt into bubbly perfection.

If you’re a fan of crispy cheese crust (and who isn’t?), broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end. Just keep a close eye—it can go from golden to scorched faster than your toddler can spill juice on your couch.

Step 9: Let It Rest, Then Serve

Once the casserole is out of the oven, give it about 10 minutes to rest before slicing. This step-by-step pause helps the layers set, making it easier to serve clean portions. Scoop out generous squares, serve hot, and watch your table fall silent (in a good way).

Pair with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or even a cozy Creamy Cauliflower Soup for the ultimate comfort dinner.

What to Serve with Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

This dish is already pretty hearty, so keep the sides simple and light. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli are also great picks. Want to double down on comfort? Serve with a side of Creamy Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Soup—it pairs perfectly with the cheesy vibes. For something refreshing, go for a sliced tomato and cucumber salad tossed in a little olive oil and salt. And don’t forget the hot sauce at the table—some folks might want a little extra kick.

Key Tips for Making Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

First, don’t overmix the meatloaf—it can make it dense instead of tender. Press it into the pan firmly, but not too compacted. Grease your dish well; this casserole likes to stick. If your mac and cheese layer looks too dry before baking, add a splash of milk. Want to punch up the flavor? Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a clove of minced garlic to the meat mixture. And for even more texture, toss some buttered breadcrumbs on top before baking. Finally, let it sit for 10 minutes after baking so the layers can settle—no one likes a lava casserole burn.

Storage and Reheating Tips Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes (cover with a damp paper towel to keep it moist), or warm larger portions in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covered with foil. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Want to prep ahead? You can assemble the whole casserole up to a day in advance and bake it fresh when you’re ready.

FAQs

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. And of course, gluten-free macaroni.

Can I use different cheese?
Totally. Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a sharp white cheddar work great. You could even mix cheeses.

Can I make it ahead?
Yup. Assemble the whole thing up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Can I freeze it?
Yes. Bake, cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. It reheats beautifully.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely. It’ll be lighter but still delicious—just be sure to season well.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole isn’t just dinner—it’s a big warm hug after a long day. It’s got the savory heartiness of meatloaf, the creamy comfort of mac and cheese, and a golden cheese crust that’s just begging to be cracked into. It’s simple, satisfying, and a total weeknight win, whether you’re feeding the family or meal-prepping for the week. For more down-home favorites like this, you might also love our Ground Beef and Potato Casserole or the ultra-cozy Irish Stew with Mashed Potatoes. Go ahead—put this cheesy casserole in your regular rotation. You deserve it.

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