Cheesy Meatloaf Casserole: The Ultimate Family Comfort Dish
This cheesy meatloaf casserole is the ultimate family comfort dish with savory beef, tender pasta, creamy melted cheeses, and bold seasonings in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 oz dry macaroni
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or turkey/chickpeas)
- 1 cup chopped white onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups bell peppers, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter (or olive oil)
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 4 slices melting cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Reserve pasta water, then drain.
- Sauté garlic, onion, and bell peppers in butter until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
- Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese, mozzarella, and sliced cheese until melted.
- Add cooked macaroni with a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Mix until creamy and fully combined.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
- Add more pasta water if sauce thickens too much.
- Ground turkey works as a lighter substitute.