Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole:

If you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the best of two comfort foods—meatloaf and mac and cheese—then this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is exactly what you need. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any night you want a filling, cheesy, and savory meal, this casserole is a delicious twist on classic favorites. With layers of creamy macaroni and cheese, flavorful meatloaf, and a golden, cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a new household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe takes two beloved dishes and elevates them into one show-stopping casserole. The creamy, cheesy mac provides a comforting base while the savory meatloaf adds protein and hearty flavor. It’s baked to perfection, creating a casserole that’s golden on top, soft and cheesy inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite seasonings, cheeses, or even add vegetables for extra nutrition.

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Mac and Cheese:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for a little extra flavor)

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Topping:

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

H2: Preparing the Mac and Cheese Base

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until it forms a smooth roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and slightly thickened. Add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and creamy.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and set aside.

H2: Making the Meatloaf Layer

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated but don’t overmix, or the meatloaf can become dense.
2. Press half of the meatloaf mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This will create the base layer for your casserole.

H2: Assembling the Casserole