Some evenings call for comfort food that doesn’t require too much thinking. This mac and cheese meatloaf became one of those recipes for me on a busy weeknight when I wanted something warm, filling, and familiar — but still fun enough that everyone at the table felt excited.
It’s not fancy, and it’s not trying to be. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone back to the kitchen, asking when dinner will be ready.
Why This Recipe Works
This dish combines two comfort classics into one easy bake. The creamy macaroni keeps the meatloaf tender, while the baked top adds just enough texture to feel hearty and satisfying.
It’s also forgiving — perfect for real life, real kitchens, and real schedules.
Recipe: Mac and Cheese Meatloaf
Why I Make This
When I want a one-pan dinner that feels cozy, filling, and family-approved without spending the whole evening cooking.
Ingredients
- The Meat: 2 lbs Ground Beef (85/15 or 90/10 blend).
- The Binders: 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup milk.
- The Seasoning: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- The Filling: 2 cups of prepared Mac and Cheese (thick/chilled works best).
- The Glaze: 1/2 cup Ketchup, 2 tbsp Brown sugar, 1 tbsp Yellow mustard.
The Process
- Prep the Meat: In a large bowl, mix the beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, and seasonings until just combined. Do not overwork the meat, or it will become tough.
- Form the Base: On a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan, pat out about 2/3 of the meat mixture into a rectangular shape with a deep “trench” in the middle.
- Stuff It: Fill the trench with the prepared mac and cheese.
- Seal It: Take the remaining meat and pat it over the top, pinching the edges firmly to ensure no cheese leaks out during baking.
- Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.
- Glaze: Brush the ketchup mixture over the top and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F
The “Golden Crust” Mac-Topped Meatloaf
If you prefer a crispy cheese topping, this method layers the macaroni on top of the meatloaf halfway through cooking.
The Process
- Form the Loaf: Mix your meatloaf base (same ingredients as above) and form it into a standard loaf.
- Initial Bake: Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- The Topping: Remove from the oven and spread a thick layer of Mac and Cheese over the entire top surface of the meat. Sprinkle with an extra 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar.
- Finish: Return to the oven for 25–30 minutes. The mac and cheese will get slightly crispy and “set” into the meat.
Easy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Recipe Everyone Will Love
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy8
servings20
minutes1
hour485
kcal
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf is a dream come true! 🤩 Imagine: a juicy meatloaf, packed with creamy, cheesy mac and cheese.
Ingredients
The Meat: 2 lbs Ground Beef (85/15 or 90/10 blend).
The Binders: 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup milk.
The Seasoning: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
The Filling: 2 cups of prepared Mac and Cheese (thick/chilled works best).
The Glaze: 1/2 cup Ketchup, 2 tbsp Brown sugar, 1 tbsp Yellow mustard.
Directions
- Prep the Meat: In a large bowl, mix the beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, and seasonings until just combined. Do not overwork the meat, or it will become tough.
- Form the Base: On a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan, pat out about 2/3 of the meat mixture into a rectangular shape with a deep “trench” in the middle.
- Stuff It: Fill the trench with the prepared mac and cheese.
- Seal It: Take the remaining meat and pat it over the top, pinching the edges firmly to ensure no cheese leaks out during baking.
- Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.
- Glaze: Brush the ketchup mixture over the top and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- The “Golden Crust” Mac-Topped Meatloaf
- Form the Loaf: Mix your meatloaf base (same ingredients as above) and form it into a standard loaf.
- Initial Bake: Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- The Topping: Remove from the oven and spread a thick layer of Mac and Cheese over the entire top surface of the meat. Sprinkle with an extra 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar.
- Finish: Return to the oven for 25–30 minutes. The mac and cheese will get slightly crispy and “set” into the meat.
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Perfect Pairing
- Simple green salad with lemon dressing
- Steamed vegetables or roasted carrots
- Warm bread or dinner rolls
- Sparkling water or fresh juice (non-alcoholic)
Make It Your Own
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a cheese blend
- Add chopped bell peppers or spinach
- Use ground chicken or turkey (halal) instead of beef
Storage & Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm
- Leftovers make great sandwich slices the next day
When I Serve This
- Busy weeknights
- Casual family dinners
- When comfort food feels like the right answer
A Little Hosting Note
This is the kind of meal that doesn’t need a perfect table. Serve it warm, pass it family-style, and let everyone help themselves. Some of the best meals are the simplest ones.
