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