A Comfort Food Mashup: Meatloaf Meets Mac & Cheese
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a bold twist on two comfort classics. A hearty meatloaf layer is topped with creamy macaroni and cheddar, then smothered in a tangy ketchup-milk glaze and baked to golden perfection. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s guaranteed to please picky eaters and comfort food lovers alike!
Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you want a taste of nostalgia with a twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🥩 Meatloaf Base: Savory, seasoned ground beef creates a rich foundation.
- 🧀 Cheesy Mac Layer: Topped with tender macaroni and melted cheddar for that classic combo.
- 🍅 Ketchup-Milk Glaze: A sweet-tangy sauce that caramelizes during baking—odd but oddly delicious!
- ⏱️ Quick Assembly: No fancy tools needed—just mix, layer, and bake.
- 🎉 Great for Sharing: Ideal at potlucks, school lunches, or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8):
For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for lighter version)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned – adds texture and binds meat)
- 2 large eggs , beaten (binds everything together)
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
For the Mac & Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup cooked macaroni noodles (boiled and drained – al dente works best)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella for extra stretch)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup ketchup (for tangy-sweet glaze)
- 1 cup milk (creates a rich, bubbly topping—yes, it works!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) .
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet to prevent sticking.
Set aside while mixing the layers.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl:
- Combine ground beef , breadcrumbs , beaten eggs , salt , and pepper .
- Mix gently with your hands until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep it tender.
Press the meatloaf mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan like a dense crust.
Step 3: Add the Mac & Cheese Layer
Spread the cooked macaroni noodles evenly over the meatloaf base.
Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the pasta for a gooey finish.
Step 4: Pour on the Ketchup-Milk Sauce
In a small bowl:
- Mix ketchup and milk until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the mac and cheese layer, covering completely.
This creates a sticky, slightly sweet sauce that bakes into a caramelized topping—trust the process!
Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Juicy
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes , or until:
- The meatloaf reaches 160°F internally
- The mac and cheese is bubbly
- The ketchup glaze is golden and slightly thickened
Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing—this helps everything set.
Step 6: Serve Warm & Hearty
Cut into generous squares and serve warm.
Each bite brings together:
- Savory, seasoned meatloaf crust
- Creamy, cheesy macaroni layer
- And that sweet-tangy ketchup-milk finish
It’s like a hug from your childhood dinner table.
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Cold Hands: Helps shape and press the meatloaf layer without sticking.
- 🧑🍳 Add Veggies: Stir in frozen peas or carrots with the macaroni for extra nutrition.
- 🧀 Cheese Swap Magic: Try Gouda, Monterey Jack, or vegan cheese for different flavors.
- 🍞 Bread Crumb Hack: Crush crackers or pretzels for a crunchy twist.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Assemble and refrigerate overnight—bake fresh when ready.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp salad for balance.
- Great with cornbread, garlic bread, or crusty rolls.
- Ideal for school lunches, family dinners, or movie night snacks.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 servings – approximate):
(With regular cheese and beef – per square)
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Protein: ~15g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fat: ~18g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~6g
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole proves that comfort food can still surprise you. With its meaty base, cheesy middle, and sweet-ketchup glaze—it’s a must-bake for anyone who loves bold, nostalgic flavors.
