Our easy mac and cheese meatloaf casserole is a family-friendly dinner that kids will ask for again and again. Made with seasoned ground beef and either homemade or boxed macaroni and cheese, it’s simple, comforting, and adaptable to what you have on hand.
This recipe merges two classic dishes into one playful comfort meal. Below you’ll find tips to keep the meatloaf moist, options for the mac and cheese topping, and simple swaps if you want to personalize the flavors. If you already have a family meatloaf base, feel free to use it—this method works with many variations.
I typically make a quick homemade macaroni and cheese when I have time, but boxed works great when you’re short on time. Either approach yields a casserole that pleases everyone at the table.
Ingredient Notes
Start with 1 pound of lean ground beef. You can swap in half sausage for more heat, but lean ground beef tends to produce less grease and holds better in a pan.
Italian breadcrumbs and a single egg act as binders to keep the meatloaf mixture cohesive; without them the mixture can be too wet to hold its shape. If you prefer, use another binder such as plain breadcrumbs or stuffing mix.
Season simply with salt, onion powder, and garlic powder. Add black pepper or a pinch of crushed red pepper if you like more kick.
Cook the macaroni and cheese until tender before spreading it over the meatloaf. Finish with extra shredded cheddar cheese for a golden, melty topping.
Variations
There are many ways to customize this casserole. Use your favorite meatloaf recipe for the base—add chili powder, dry sriracha, or diced jalapeños for a spicy version, or fold in chopped bell pepper and grated carrot for extra veggies. For the topping you can use boxed, homemade, or even a large microwavable mac and cheese cup if you’re in a hurry.
How to Make the Mac and Cheese
Homemade mac and cheese yields the creamiest topping, but boxed is quick and perfectly acceptable. If using a frozen macaroni and cheese entree, heat according to package directions and use it as your topping. Prepare the mac while the meatloaf cooks, so everything finishes around the same time.
How Long to Cook Meatloaf Casserole
This casserole is baked in two stages for the best texture. Total oven time is about 45 minutes: first bake the meatloaf base, then top it with cooked mac and cheese and finish baking until heated through and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Prep time for boxed mac is roughly 20 minutes; using frozen or a quick stovetop mac can be faster.
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe
Equipment
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1 9×9 pan
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1 bowl
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1 pot if cooking mac and cheese on stove
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup ketchup or bbq sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 box macaroni and cheese (prepared)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the ground beef with Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, egg, breadcrumbs, ketchup (or BBQ sauce), and beef broth. Reserve the shredded cheddar for later.
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Spray a 9×9 pan with nonstick spray. Press the meat mixture evenly into the pan and bake for 30 minutes. While the meat is baking, prepare the macaroni and cheese.
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Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the cooked mac and cheese evenly over the top, then sprinkle with the reserved shredded cheddar. Return to the oven and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until the center is hot and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
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Let rest for 5 minutes, slice, and serve.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.