Dinner

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup Recipe

ByJulian Dempsey January 18, 2026January 18, 2026

Introduction

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a delicious fusion of two classic comfort foods. This hearty dish layers a savory meatloaf base with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.

The image shows a close-up view of a thick square slice of baked macaroni and cheese with ground beef. The dish has three visible layers: the top layer is golden brown melted cheese with crispy spots, the middle layer is cooked elbow macaroni pasta that is creamy and pale yellow, and the bottom layer is a dense layer of browned ground beef mixed with cheese. The macaroni pieces are chunky and coated in cheese sauce, packed tightly together. The slice is presented on a white plate with a white marbled surface in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 cups uncooked macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1/4 cup milk (for meatloaf)
2 tbsp butter (for cheese sauce)
2 cups milk (for cheese sauce)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dry mustard
2 tbsp flour

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Mix well and press the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
Step 3: Bake the meatloaf layer for 20 minutes.
Step 4: While the meatloaf bakes, cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 6: Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dry mustard.
Step 7: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 8: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then pour this mixture evenly over the partially baked meatloaf.
Step 9: Top with any remaining shredded cheese.
Step 10: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Tips & Variations

Use sharp cheddar for a more intense cheese flavor or mix in some mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce can give the casserole a subtle kick.
For a lower-fat version, substitute ground turkey and use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
Try stirring in some cooked vegetables like peas or diced bell peppers into the macaroni before layering.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the casserole from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a single square piece of baked macaroni and cheese with ground beef. The bottom layer has tubular macaroni pasta in creamy cheese sauce. Above it is a thick, dense layer of browned ground beef. The top layer is gooey, melted, golden-brown cheddar cheese with small browned spots, covering the pasta and beef underneath. The texture of the cheese looks soft and stretchy, while the beef appears crumbly and juicy. The photo is sharp with bright natural light showing the dish’s rich colors and textures against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the step before the final bake and refrigerate it overnight. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

What can I substitute for dry mustard in the cheese sauce?

If you don’t have dry mustard on hand, you can use a small amount of prepared mustard (about 1 teaspoon) or simply omit it; the cheese sauce will still be flavorful.