Here’s a rich and comforting Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole recipe, written in full detail with clear directions Perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
🧀🍖 Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
⏱ Prep Time:
25 minutes
⏱ Cook Time:
45–50 minutes
🍽 Serves:
6–8 people
🧾 Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
-
Ground beef – 500 g (1 lb)
-
Ground pork (optional) – 250 g (½ lb)
-
Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
-
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
-
Egg – 1 large
-
Bread crumbs – ½ cup
-
Milk – ¼ cup
-
Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon
-
Salt – 1 teaspoon
-
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
-
Dried thyme – ½ teaspoon
For the Mac and Cheese:
-
Elbow macaroni – 2 cups (uncooked)
-
Butter – 2 tablespoons
-
All-purpose flour – 2 tablespoons
-
Milk – 2 cups
-
Cheddar cheese – 2 cups, shredded
-
Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded
-
Salt – ½ teaspoon
-
Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
-
Optional: Paprika or chili flakes – ¼ teaspoon
Optional Topping:
-
Extra shredded cheese – ½ cup
-
Bread crumbs – 2 tablespoons
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Mac and Cheese
-
Cook macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
-
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
-
Stir in flour and cook 1 minute to remove raw taste.
-
Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened.
-
Add cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until melted.
-
Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika.
-
Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
-
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
-
In a large bowl, combine ground beef (and pork if using), onion, garlic, egg, bread crumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme.
-
Mix gently until just combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
-
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
Spread half of the mac and cheese evenly at the bottom.
-
Press meatloaf mixture on top, forming an even layer.
-
Spread remaining mac and cheese over the meat layer.
-
Sprinkle optional extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top for a golden crust.
Step 4: Bake
-
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
-
Remove foil and bake 15–20 minutes more until cheese is bubbly and top is golden.
-
Ensure meat reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
Step 5: Rest & Serve
-
Let casserole rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
-
Serve warm, straight from the dish.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
-
With a fresh green salad
-
Garlic bread or soft rolls
-
Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
⭐ Tips for Best Results
-
Use sharp cheddar for richer flavor
-
Do not overmix meat for tender meatloaf
-
Make ahead: assemble and refrigerate, then bake the next day
-
Freeze: uncooked casserole up to 2 months