Cheesy Meatloaf Macaroni Bake is the ultimate comfort food—a delicious combination of savory meatloaf and creamy macaroni and cheese, all baked together in one dish. This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering the best of both worlds with tender ground beef, flavorful seasonings, and gooey cheese. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that will quickly become a household favorite.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Cheesy Meatloaf Macaroni Bake
• Recipe Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Cook the Meatloaf Base: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the meatloaf mixture until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until slightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mustard powder (if using) until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine and Assemble: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture over the meatloaf layer in the baking dish. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Meatloaf Macaroni Bake

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
• Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning of both the meatloaf and cheese sauce to your preference by adding more salt, pepper, or even a bit of hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to make it easier to cut and serve.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Addition: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meatloaf mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Different Cheeses: Substitute some of the cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Green Salad: Serve this hearty casserole with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• With Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a comforting and filling dinner.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.

Cheesy Meatloaf Macaroni Bake 🍝 is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together two classic favorites—meatloaf and macaroni and cheese—in one irresistible casserole. With its layers of savory meat, creamy cheese sauce, and tender pasta, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors with your loved ones. It’s a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!