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Cheesy meatloaf and pasta casserole with melted cheese and herbs baked in a white dish

Cheesy Meatloaf and Pasta Casserole for Cozy Nights

Chef Roberto, an Italian-American cuisine expert from Eat Every Slice, smiling while holding a plate of freshly made pasta garnished with basil.Roberto
This cheesy meatloaf and pasta casserole is inspired by Italian comfort cooking and designed for cozy nights at home. Tender meatloaf and creamy baked pasta come together in one satisfying dish.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian-Inspired
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish

Ingredients
  

Meatloaf Layer

  • 1 1/2 lb ground beef lean preferred
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Pasta and Cheese Layer

  • 12 oz short pasta cooked al dente
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk warmed
  • 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish so the casserole releases cleanly after baking.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente so it holds its texture during baking. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
  • In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
  • Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, forming a flat layer without compacting it too tightly.
  • Bake the meatloaf layer for about 25 minutes so it sets slightly and can support the pasta layer without mixing.
  • While the meatloaf bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook briefly to remove the raw flour taste.
  • Slowly whisk in warmed milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
  • Reduce the heat and stir in mozzarella and parmesan until fully melted. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  • Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring gently so each piece is evenly coated.
  • Remove the baking dish from the oven and carefully spread the cheesy pasta evenly over the partially baked meatloaf.
  • Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
  • Let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes before serving so the layers set and portions hold together.

Notes

Make ahead: Assemble the casserole up to one day in advance and bake when ready.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooled portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently to maintain a creamy texture.
Keyword authentic italian bites, cheesy meatloaf casserole, comfort food casserole, cozy dinner recipe, meatloaf pasta bake