Few dishes scream “comfort food” like mac and cheese or meatloaf, but when combined into a single casserole, they create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping. This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole layers juicy, flavorful meatloaf with creamy, cheesy macaroni, all baked to perfection with a crispy golden topping.
This dish brings together the hearty, savory flavors of meatloaf with the rich, creamy texture of mac and cheese, making it the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re a fan of classic American comfort food or looking for a twist on traditional recipes, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Two Classics in One – Combines the best of meatloaf and mac and cheese.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and family-friendly.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully.
Customizable – Add your favorite mix-ins like bacon, mushrooms, or jalapeños.
In this article, we’ll explore everything about this dish, from ingredients and cooking tips to customization ideas and storage recommendations. Let’s dive into this cheesy, meaty masterpiece and discover how you can make it at home!
What is Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole?
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a fusion dish that combines two of the most beloved comfort foods—meatloaf and mac and cheese—into a single, hearty casserole. The dish consists of a savory meatloaf base, a layer of creamy macaroni and cheese, and an optional crispy topping for added texture.
A Perfect Blend of Comfort Foods
Both meatloaf and mac and cheese have deep roots in American home cooking. Meatloaf has been a staple dinner dish for generations, known for its rich, seasoned beef and tender texture. On the other hand, mac and cheese is the ultimate creamy, cheesy pasta dish, enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
By layering these two classics together, you get:
- A juicy, flavorful meat base with a satisfying bite.
- A cheesy, creamy pasta layer that melts into the meat.
- A crunchy, golden topping (if desired) that adds texture.
How This Dish Became Popular
The idea of combining meatloaf and mac and cheese isn’t new, but this casserole variation has gained popularity in recent years thanks to:
Home cooks looking for creative comfort food recipes.
The rise of casserole-style dishes that are easy to prepare.
Social media food trends showcasing indulgent mashups.
Why This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is a Must-Try
1️⃣ Family-Friendly – Kids love mac and cheese, while adults enjoy the meatloaf.
2️⃣ Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.
3️⃣ Easy to Customize – Add veggies, spice it up, or make it low-carb.
4️⃣ One-Pan Meal – Saves time and reduces cleanup.
This cheesy, meaty, and ultra-satisfying casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even holiday gatherings. Now that we understand what it is, let’s take a look at the essential ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious dish.
Ingredients for the Best Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
To create the perfect Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, you’ll need a combination of juicy meatloaf ingredients, creamy mac and cheese components, and an optional topping for added crunch. Below is a breakdown of the best ingredients to use for each layer.
1. Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Base: The Foundation of the Casserole
The meatloaf serves as the savory base of the casserole. To ensure it stays moist, flavorful, and holds together, you need a combination of protein, binders, and seasonings.
Best Meat for a Juicy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Base
- Ground beef (80/20 mix) – Provides the perfect balance of fat and flavor.
- Ground turkey or chicken – A leaner option with a milder taste.
- Ground pork or a beef/pork mix – Adds richness and juiciness.
Essential Meatloaf Binders:
- Breadcrumbs – Help absorb moisture and keep the meatloaf from crumbling.
- Eggs – Bind the ingredients together for a firm texture.
- Milk – Adds moisture to prevent a dry meatloaf.
Flavor Enhancers:
- Onions and garlic – Essential aromatics that add depth to the meat.
- Ketchup or tomato paste – A slightly sweet, tangy kick.
- Worcestershire sauce – Boosts umami and enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning – The perfect seasoning blend.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overmix the meatloaf! Overworking the mixture can result in a dense, tough texture.
2. Creamy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Layer for a Perfect Casserole
The mac and cheese should be ultra-creamy, rich, and cheesy, perfectly complementing the savory meatloaf.
Choosing the Right Pasta:
- Elbow macaroni – The classic choice for mac and cheese.
- Shells or cavatappi – Great for trapping the cheese sauce.
- Rotini or penne – Works well for a heartier texture.
Best Cheeses for the Creamiest Sauce:
- Sharp cheddar – Classic, bold flavor and melts well.
- Mozzarella – Adds gooey, stretchy texture.
- Parmesan – Provides a nutty, salty kick.
- Colby Jack or Monterey Jack – Creamy and mild.
The Secret to Perfect Cheese Sauce:
- Butter & flour – The base for a smooth roux.
- Whole milk or heavy cream – Adds creaminess and richness.
- Seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika – Enhances the cheese flavor.
💡 Pro Tip: Grate your own cheese! Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
3. The Crispy Finish (Optional but Highly Recommended!)
A golden, crispy topping adds texture contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.
✔ Best Topping Options:
- Breadcrumbs + melted butter – Classic crispy topping.
- Crushed crackers or panko – Extra crunch factor.
- Extra shredded cheese – For an even cheesier top layer.
💡 Pro Tip: For a crunchy crust, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s walk through the step-by-step process to create a perfectly layered, delicious Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole.
Prepare the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Base
The meatloaf layer acts as the solid foundation of this casserole. It should be juicy, well-seasoned, and firm enough to support the mac and cheese on top.
Ingredients for the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Layer:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, diced onion, garlic, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Gently mix everything until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf dense.
- Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming a compact layer.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, then remove from the oven and carefully drain any excess grease.
Cook the Macaroni and Make the Cheese Sauce
While the meatloaf is baking, it’s time to cook the pasta and prepare the creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients for the Mac and Cheese Casserole Layer:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or preferred pasta)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions). Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute until golden brown.
- Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly, and cook until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
- Lower the heat and stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and paprika until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Remove from heat and fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring it is evenly coated in the creamy cheese sauce.
💡 Pro Tip: If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a little extra milk to loosen it up before mixing in the pasta.
Assemble the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Now that both layers are ready, it’s time to put them together!
- After partially baking the meatloaf, spread the cheesy mac and cheese evenly over the meatloaf layer.
- Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- If you want a crunchy topping, mix ½ cup breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
How to Bake and Serve Your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
- Place the casserole back into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- If you want a crispy, golden crust, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
💡 Pro Tip: Letting the casserole rest allows the layers to set and makes slicing much easier.
Serve and Enjoy!
Slice the casserole into portions and serve warm. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread.
Now that you know how to make it, let’s dive into some expert tips and tricks to ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time.
Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
Making the perfect Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is all about getting the right texture, flavor balance, and consistency. Here are some expert tips to ensure your casserole turns out juicy, creamy, and full of flavor every time!
1. How to Prevent a Dry Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
One of the most common mistakes when making meatloaf is ending up with a dry, crumbly texture. Follow these tips to keep it juicy and tender:
✔ Use the Right Meat: A mix of 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) works best. Leaner meat can dry out, so if using turkey or chicken, add an extra egg or more breadcrumbs soaked in milk.
✔ Don’t Overmix the Meat: Overmixing causes the meat to become dense and tough. Mix just until combined.
✔ Let It Rest: After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest for at least 5 minutes before adding the mac and cheese. This helps lock in moisture.
2. How to Get the Creamiest Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
For a rich and creamy mac and cheese layer, follow these key steps:
✔ Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture.
✔ Use Whole Milk or Heavy Cream: Skim milk won’t provide the same creaminess. A mix of whole milk and a little heavy cream works best.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it just until al dente (firm to the bite). Overcooked pasta becomes mushy after baking.
✔ Make a Smooth Roux: Cooking the butter and flour together for at least 1 minute removes the raw flour taste and helps create a velvety sauce.
💡 Pro Tip: If the cheese sauce gets too thick, add a splash of warm milk to loosen it up.
3. How to Get a Crispy, Golden Topping
A crunchy topping adds a delicious contrast to the creamy mac and cheese. Here’s how to get that perfect golden-brown crust:
Breadcrumbs + Butter: Mix ½ cup panko or regular breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
Extra Cheese: A layer of cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella on top will crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Broil for the Last 2-3 Minutes: This gives the casserole a nice golden-brown finish. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
4. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
❌ Skipping the Draining Step: After baking the meatloaf layer, always drain the excess grease before adding the mac and cheese. Otherwise, the casserole can become oily.
❌ Using the Wrong Pasta Shape: Some pasta types don’t hold cheese sauce well. Stick with elbows, shells, cavatappi, or rotini for the best texture.
❌ Overbaking the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: Baking for too long can dry out the meatloaf and make the pasta tough. Stick to 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C) after assembling.
❌ Not Seasoning the Cheese Sauce: A bland mac and cheese layer can make the dish feel flat. Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for enhanced flavor.
5. Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. Here’s how:
✔ Make Ahead (Unbaked):
- Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge.
- When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, then bake as directed.
✔ Make Ahead (Baked & Reheated):
- Bake the casserole completely and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions.
💡 Pro Tip: Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep the mac and cheese creamy.
Variations of Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole
One of the best things about Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is how versatile it is! You can easily customize it to fit your taste, dietary needs, or make it even more indulgent. Below are some delicious variations to try.
1. Spicy Kick: Turn Up the Heat! 🌶️
If you love spicy food, this version will add an extra kick to your casserole.
🔥 How to Spice It Up:
Add Jalapeños – Finely dice fresh or pickled jalapeños into the meatloaf mixture or sprinkle them over the mac and cheese.
Use Pepper Jack Cheese – Instead of cheddar, mix in pepper jack for a spicy, creamy texture.
Hot Sauce Boost – Add a few drops of sriracha, Tabasco, or buffalo sauce to the cheese sauce.
Cayenne or Red Pepper Flakes – Sprinkle a little into the meatloaf mix or on top before baking.
2. Low-Carb or Keto Version 🥑
Want a lower-carb version? Swap out the pasta and breadcrumbs while keeping all the flavor.
🥩 Low-Carb Modifications:
Use Cauliflower Mac & Cheese – Replace pasta with roasted or steamed cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly option.
Almond Flour Instead of Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatloaf without the carbs.
Heavy Cream + Cream Cheese – Make the cheese sauce richer without using flour.
💡 Pro Tip: For an extra crunchy keto topping, mix crushed pork rinds with shredded cheese!
3. Vegetarian and Vegan Adaptations 🌱
You can still enjoy this comfort food classic without meat or dairy!
🌿 Vegetarian Substitutions:
Use Plant-Based Meat – Ground Impossible™ or Beyond Meat™ works great for the meatloaf base.
Lentils + Mushrooms Combo – A mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, and breadcrumbs can mimic the texture of ground beef.
Egg Replacement – Use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) as a binder.
🥛 Dairy-Free Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Options:
Use Vegan Cheese – Brands like Daiya, Violife, or Miyoko’s melt well.
Cashew Cream Sauce – Blend soaked cashews, garlic, nutritional yeast, and almond milk for a creamy alternative.
Coconut or Oat Milk – Great substitutes for regular milk in the cheese sauce.
4. Bacon Lovers’ Edition 🥓
If you think everything is better with bacon, this variation is for you!
🥓 How to Add Bacon Goodness:
Bacon in the Meatloaf – Mix crumbled cooked bacon into the meatloaf mixture for extra smoky flavor.
Bacon Mac & Cheese – Stir in chopped crispy bacon into the cheese sauce.
Topping – Sprinkle bacon bits over the casserole before baking.
💡 Pro Tip: Try using smoked gouda or cheddar to complement the bacon’s smokiness!
5. Deluxe Three-Cheese Blend 🧀
Want to upgrade the cheesiness? Use a mix of three different cheeses for the ultimate flavor explosion.
🧀 Best Cheese Combinations:
Sharp Cheddar + Monterey Jack + Mozzarella – Balanced, creamy, and stretchy.
Gruyère + Parmesan + White Cheddar – Rich, nutty, and gourmet-style.
Smoked Gouda + Fontina + Havarti – Buttery, smoky, and extra melty.
💡 Pro Tip: A little cream cheese added to the cheese sauce makes it extra velvety!
6. BBQ-Style Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole 🍖
This variation gives your casserole a Southern BBQ twist!
🔥 BBQ Enhancements:
BBQ Sauce Glaze – Instead of ketchup, spread your favorite BBQ sauce over the meatloaf before baking.
Smoky Cheese Blend – Use smoked cheddar or gouda for a BBQ flavor.
Crispy Fried Onions Topping – Instead of breadcrumbs, use French-fried onions for extra crunch.
Pulled Pork Layer – Add a layer of BBQ pulled pork between the meatloaf and mac and cheese for extra smokiness.
💡 Pro Tip: Serve with coleslaw and cornbread for the full BBQ experience!
7. Italian-Style Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole 🇮🇹
Love Italian flavors? Give this casserole an Italian twist!
🍅 Italian Modifications:
Use Italian Sausage – Swap ground beef with Italian sausage for a bold flavor.
Add Marinara Sauce – Spread a thin layer of marinara over the meatloaf before adding the mac and cheese.
Mozzarella & Parmesan Mix – Use a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan instead of cheddar.
Top with Fresh Basil – Adds a fresh, aromatic finish after baking.
💡 Pro Tip: Serve with garlic bread for a true Italian-inspired meal!
8. Extra Veggie Boost 🥦
Want to make this dish a little healthier? Load it up with veggies!
🥦 Best Vegetables to Add:
Spinach or Kale – Chop finely and mix into the meatloaf or cheese sauce.
Roasted Bell Peppers & Mushrooms – Add for extra depth of flavor.
Shredded Carrots or Zucchini – Mix into the meatloaf to keep it moist.
Broccoli or Cauliflower – Stir into the mac and cheese for extra nutrients.
💡 Pro Tip: Sauté the veggies before adding them for a richer taste!
This Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining a juicy meatloaf base with creamy, cheesy macaroni for a hearty, satisfying meal. If you love indulgent, cheesy bakes, you’ll also enjoy this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, which transforms the classic sandwich into a delicious, oven-baked dish. For another easy, cheesy dinner idea, try this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, which combines tender chicken, ham, and melty cheese in a creamy sauce. And if you’re looking for a crispy, kid-friendly side to serve alongside your casserole, these Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier yet just as tasty alternative to the fried version.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you store mac and cheese casserole?
To store your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole properly:
✔ Refrigerator: Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it with foil, plastic wrap, or placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
✔ Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months.
✔ Reheating Tips:
- Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. Add a little milk to keep the mac and cheese creamy.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to prevent drying out.
2. Does mac and cheese thicken in the oven?
Yes! Mac and cheese naturally thickens when baked because the pasta absorbs the sauce, and the cheese continues to melt and bind with the ingredients.
✔ If the mac and cheese is too thin before baking:
- Add extra shredded cheese to help thicken it.
- Use less milk in the cheese sauce.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes after baking—it will firm up as it cools.
💡 Pro Tip: If you prefer extra creamy mac and cheese, add a little more milk or cream before baking to compensate for thickening.
3. How long can cooked mac and cheese sit out?
Mac and cheese should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After that, bacteria can grow, making it unsafe to eat.
✔ If you need to keep it warm for longer:
- Place it in an oven on low heat (170-200°F).
- Use a slow cooker on the “warm” setting.
✔ How to tell if it has gone bad:
- If it has a sour smell or strange texture, discard it.
- Mold or discoloration means it’s no longer safe to eat.
4. How do you keep mac and cheese from drying out when baking?
Baked mac and cheese can dry out if it loses too much moisture. To keep it creamy:
✔ Use a creamy cheese sauce: Make sure your cheese sauce is slightly thinner than usual before baking, as the pasta will absorb liquid.
✔ Cover with foil while baking: This helps retain moisture. Remove the foil in the last 5-10 minutes for a golden crust.
✔ Don’t overbake: Bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbly—20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C) is ideal.
✔ Add extra cheese or milk before reheating: If reheating, stir in a splash of milk or more cheese to bring back the creaminess.
💡 Pro Tip: If adding a crunchy topping (like breadcrumbs or cheese), apply it only in the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent it from burning or drying out the dish.
Conclusion
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending the savory goodness of meatloaf with the creamy, cheesy richness of mac and cheese. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping.
By following the step-by-step guide, using the best ingredients, and applying the pro tips, you can create a flavor-packed casserole with the perfect balance of juicy meat, creamy pasta, and a golden crispy topping. Plus, with all the customization ideas, you can tweak the recipe to fit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or even spice it up with creative twists.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, a special gathering, or simply to enjoy as leftovers throughout the week, this dish will surely become a family favorite.
So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to dig into one of the most delicious homemade casseroles you’ll ever make!
Enjoy your Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family! 😊🍽️
Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole – A Hearty and Cheesy Comfort Food
Equipment
- ✔ 9×13-inch baking dish
- ✔ Large mixing bowls
- ✔ Whisk
- ✔️ Saucepan
- ✔ Wooden spoon or spatula
- ✔ Cheese grater
- ✔ Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- For the Meatloaf Layer:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef 80/20 mix
- ½ cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 egg beaten
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- For the Mac and Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or any pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk whole or 2%
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika optional
- For the Topping Optional:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs for crunch
- 1 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Gently mix until combined (do not overmix, or it will become tough).
- Press the meat mixture evenly into the baking dish, forming a solid layer.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, then remove and drain any excess grease.
- Step 2: Make the Mac and Cheese
- While the meatloaf is baking, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Stir constantly for 1 minute until golden.
- Slowly add milk, whisking continuously, and cook until thickened (3-5 minutes).
- Stir in cheddar cheese, parmesan, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
- Mix in the cooked pasta and coat well with the cheese sauce.
- Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Once the meatloaf has partially baked, spread the mac and cheese evenly over the meatloaf layer.
- Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top for extra gooeyness.
- (Optional) Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top for a crunchy texture.
- Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
✔ Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
✔ Reheating Tip: Add a splash of milk when reheating to keep the mac and cheese creamy.
✔ Customize it: Add bacon, jalapeños, mushrooms, or even BBQ sauce for extra flavor.