why make this recipe
This dish is warm, filling, and easy. It mixes two favorite foods — mac and cheese and meatloaf — into one pan. It saves time and feeds a family. Kids and adults like it.
introduction
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a simple comfort food. Ground beef, pasta, milk, cheese, and basic spices come together. You bake it in one dish. It makes a cheesy, meaty meal that is easy to serve.
how to make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Make the meat mix and the cheesy macaroni. Layer them in a baking dish. Bake until the meat is done and the cheese bubbles. Let it rest a few minutes, then cut and serve.
Ingredients :
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: additional cheese for topping
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with milk and shredded cheese.
- Layer half of the meat mixture in a greased casserole dish, followed by half of the macaroni mixture. Repeat the layers.
- If desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting casserole!
how to serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Cut into squares and place on plates. Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. A spoonful of ketchup or BBQ sauce on the side works well for kids.
how to store Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Cool the casserole to room temperature. Cover and store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
tips to make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Do not overmix the meat to keep it tender.
- Use slightly undercooked pasta so it does not get too soft in the oven.
- Add a little extra milk if the macaroni mix seems dry.
- Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes before cutting to hold its shape.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper before baking.
variation (if any)
- Use ground turkey or ground pork instead of beef.
- Stir in frozen peas or chopped bell pepper for more veggies.
- Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or smoked cheddar.
- Add a small amount of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble it and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake within 24 hours for best results.
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes. Small shapes like shells, penne, or elbow macaroni work well.
Q: How do I know the meat is fully cooked?
A: The center should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef. The juices should run clear.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes. Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Q: Can I skip the egg?
A: You can, but the egg helps bind the meat. Use a flax egg or extra breadcrumbs if you skip it.
Conclusion
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a simple, cozy meal you can make any night. If you want another take on the dish, see the recipe on The English Kitchen for a similar version: Macaroni and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole at The English Kitchen. For a gluten-free idea and notes, check the recipe found at No Dash of Gluten: Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole on No Dash of Gluten. If you prefer a slow-cooker approach, review the crockpot method shared at 365 Days of Slow Cooking: Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. For another home-cooked take with tips, read the post on This Is Not Diet Food: Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole at This Is Not Diet Food. You can also see a recent version and notes at Life With Janet: Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole at Life With Janet.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs You can use regular or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- 1 egg egg Helps to bind the meat mixture.
- 1 onion, chopped Adds flavor to the meat.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Can be adjusted based on taste.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to your preference.
Macaroni Mixture
- 1 cup macaroni Use slightly undercooked pasta.
- 1 cup milk Can add more if the mixture seems dry.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend) For maximum cheesiness.
- optional additional cheese for topping For extra gooeyness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with milk and shredded cheese.
Layering and Baking
- Layer half of the meat mixture in a greased casserole dish, followed by half of the macaroni mixture. Repeat the layers.
- If desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the meat is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.