Name: Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Looking for the ultimate comfort food mashup? This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf is a soul-warming, fork-tender, cheesy indulgence that brings together two all-time American favorites. A juicy layer of savory meatloaf forms the foundation, topped with ultra-creamy, golden-baked macaroni and cheese that gets irresistibly crispy on the edges. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or want a creative twist for weeknight dinner, this hearty dish is a showstopper on the table. With familiar flavors and easy ingredients, it’s the perfect recipe to impress without any fancy techniques. Prepare for seconds—and thirds!

What Kind of Cheese Should I Use for Mac and Cheese Meatloaf?

Cheddar is the star here. It melts beautifully, has bold flavor, and browns to a perfect crust on top. For added depth, combine sharp cheddar with a little Monterey Jack or Colby. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Ingredients for the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf

Ground beef: The hearty base of the meatloaf, offering savory richness and texture.

Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the loaf and gives it structure.

Eggs: Essential for holding everything together.

Onion and garlic: Add aromatic depth and savory notes.

Ketchup and Worcestershire sauce: Bring in that classic meatloaf tang and umami.

Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta choice for a nostalgic mac and cheese experience.

Butter and flour: The beginning of a roux to make a smooth, creamy cheese sauce.

Milk: Creates the velvety base for your cheese sauce.

Cheddar cheese: The star of the mac and cheese topping—sharp and melt-worthy.

Salt, pepper, paprika: Simple seasonings to elevate every layer.

How To Make the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf

Step 1: Prep the Meatloaf Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, finely diced onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, forming a flat meatloaf layer. Bake for 25 minutes while you prepare the macaroni.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

Boil the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth. Stir in shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Macaroni and Sauce

Stir the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.

Step 6: Layer and Bake Again

Spread the mac and cheese evenly over the partially baked meatloaf. Return to the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 7: Broil for a Crust (Optional)

For extra crispiness, broil the top for 2-3 minutes at the end—just keep an eye on it!

Serving and Storing Mac and Cheese Meatloaf

Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set. Use a sharp knife or spatula to get clean, stacked slices.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep the mac and cheese creamy.

What to Serve With Mac and Cheese Meatloaf?

Classic Green Beans

Steam or sautéed green beans with a bit of garlic butter make for a bright, crunchy contrast.

Creamy Coleslaw

The cool tang of coleslaw cuts through the richness perfectly.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Crispy roasted sprouts add an earthy flavor that balances the savory meat.

Cornbread Muffins

Slightly sweet and soft, cornbread is a delightful companion to this dish.

Pickled Jalapeños or Onions

A zippy, acidic topping adds a welcome brightness to every bite.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf, you might want to try these other Savor Queen comfort hits:

Easy Shepherd’s Pie for another hearty layered favorite.
Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken for low-effort richness.
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes when you want handheld comfort.
Cheeseburger Soup with the same classic flavors in a bowl.
Crockpot Mac and Cheese if you want a standalone cheesy side.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a bit of bacon in the mac or a drizzle of BBQ sauce on the meatloaf? Let me know how it turned out in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Craving a cozy, indulgent dinner that checks every comfort food box? This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf is the ultimate mashup of creamy macaroni and cheese baked over a juicy, savory meatloaf. With its golden, cheesy top and tender beef base, it’s a family-favorite that delivers on both flavor and nostalgia. Perfect for easy dinner ideas, this dish is a satisfying solution when you need something hearty, quick, and crowd-pleasing. From weeknight meals to potluck favorites, this easy recipe fits every occasion—giving you the best of both classic dishes in one irresistible slice.