Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole merges two comfort food favorites into one delicious dish. This hearty casserole delivers the cheesy goodness of mac and cheese combined with the savory depth of meatloaf, creating a meal that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With its easy preparation and satisfying flavors, this dish will quickly earn a spot as a household favorite.
Why We Love This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole brings together the best of both worlds: rich and creamy cheese intermingled with a flavorful meatloaf blend. Its appeal lies not only in its comforting taste but also in its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you enjoy classic flavors or want to experiment with new ingredients, this casserole adapts beautifully. Additionally, it offers a crowd-pleasing portion size, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry. The leftovers are just as delightful, making it a great option for meal-prepping or enjoying throughout the week.
Ingredients for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or parsley
- Optional toppings: more cheese, breadcrumbs, or chopped parsley
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, cooked macaroni, sautéed onion and garlic, 1 cup of shredded cheese, milk, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Mix everything together until fully combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the remaining shredded cheese and any additional toppings you prefer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
To serve Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, cut it into squares or scoop generous portions onto plates. This dish pairs well with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables, making a balanced meal that’s both indulgent and wholesome. You can also consider offering a light drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added flavor. This casserole is great for sharing and is sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites, making it ideal for gatherings. If you plan to serve leftovers, you can reheat individual portions in the oven or microwave, ensuring they remain just as flavorful as when you first served them.
Expert Tips for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
To ensure the best Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, start with high-quality cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged versions that contain preservatives. You can experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor. When it comes to the meat, don’t shy away from seasoning; not only can you adjust salt and pepper, but also consider adding spices like paprika or even a pinch of cayenne for a kick. If you prefer a lighter option, try using ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for beef. To enhance the texture, consider adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the mixture. Finally, for a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking, just until the cheese begins to bubble and brown.
How to Store Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
To store your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, allow it to cool completely after baking. You can then cover the casserole dish with a lid or plastic wrap, or transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This dish will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place portions in the microwave or an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
Variations of Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
There are countless variations to try with your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. You could switch up the type of meat, using ground chicken or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option. Adding different types of cheese can give this dish a whole new flavor profile—experiment with gouda, fontina, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. For added vegetables, consider mixing in spinach, broccoli, or sweet corn for extra color and nutrients. You can also fold in cooked vegetables into the macaroni before combining it with the meat mixture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might layer the casserole instead of mixing, using layers of cheese and meat for a visually appealing presentation. Changing the pasta shape is another fun twist; try using shells, rotini, or rigatoni for a new texture.
FAQ about Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
What is Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a hearty dish that combines the flavors of meatloaf with creamy mac and cheese, baked together for a comforting meal.
Can I make Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What’s the best way to reheat Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?
Absolutely! Allow it to cool, then wrap tightly and freeze. It can be frozen for 2-3 months for best quality.
What can I serve with Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Plus more for topping
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or parsley
Optional Toppings
- more cheese
- breadcrumbs
- chopped parsley
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, cooked macaroni, sautéed onion and garlic, 1 cup of shredded cheese, milk, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Mix everything together until fully combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the remaining shredded cheese and any additional toppings you prefer.
Baking
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!