If you are searching for a comforting dish that combines hearty flavors with cheesy indulgence, look no further than the Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole Recipe. This dish brings together a classic meatloaf base layered with tender pasta shells smothered in a rich, creamy cheddar sauce. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of savory meat and gooey cheese, making it a guaranteed family favorite that’s both filling and flavorful. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this casserole delivers warmth and satisfaction straight from the oven to your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, approachable ingredients that are staples in most kitchens. Each one plays a vital role, from building the meaty foundation and creamy cheese sauce to adding just the right touch of seasoning and texture.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides the rich, meaty base essential for classic meatloaf flavor.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf together and keeps it tender.
- 1 egg: Acts as the perfect binder to hold the meat mixture firm yet moist.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture, keeping the meatloaf juicy.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Brings a hint of sweetness and tang that brightens the meat mixture.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Delivers a deep umami flavor to enrich the beef.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle savory notes without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the meat’s natural flavors.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning for balanced flavor.
- 8 oz medium pasta shells: Their shape is perfect to hold the luscious cheese sauce.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Forms the base of the creamy cheese sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce smoothly.
- 2 cups milk: Creates the creamy, comforting texture of the sauce.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Offers that signature gooey, tangy cheesiness everyone loves.
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard (optional): Adds a subtle depth and slight tang to the cheese sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional): Brings a hint of smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Provides a pop of freshness and color.
How to Make Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf dense. Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared dish. This creates a sturdy base to hold the cheesy shells later, and baking it uncovered for 20 minutes helps firm it up while locking in moisture.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
While the meatloaf is in the oven, boil your medium pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. You want them cooked through but still firm enough to hold their shape and soak up that luscious sauce. Once done, drain the shells and set them aside, ready to be enveloped in that dreamy cheddar mixture.
Step 3: Make the Cheddar Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute to form a roux—the foundation for a creamy sauce. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until it thickens into a smooth, velvety texture. Lower the heat, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, dry mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Keep mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is rich and creamy. This cheese sauce is what makes this casserole truly irresistible.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Stir the cooked pasta shells into the cheese sauce until every shell is luxuriously coated. Retrieve the meatloaf base from the oven and evenly spread the cheesy shells over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This final bake melds the layers together beautifully, giving you a bubbly, lightly golden topping that’s simply mouthwatering. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes—it helps everything set nicely for clean slices.
How to Serve Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds vibrant color but also a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce. For an extra burst of flavor, you could also add some finely chopped green onions or a dash of smoked paprika on top.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with simple steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or a crisp mixed salad adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness. Garlic bread or a warm dinner roll would also complement the dish perfectly by soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, consider spooning individual portions into small ramekins instead of baking in a large dish—perfect for serving guests or meal prepping. You could also sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top right before the final bake step for an oozy cheese crust. Adding a drizzle of ketchup or barbecue sauce on plates gives a nostalgic nod to classic meatloaf flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled to room temperature before refrigerating to keep the cheese sauce creamy without becoming too thick or separating.
Freezing
If you’d like to make this casserole ahead for busy nights, it freezes well. Assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding extra baking time until heated through and bubbly.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through or bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Remove the cover halfway through baking to allow the top to crisp slightly, restoring its freshly baked charm.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional for its bold flavor and meltiness, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan to customize the taste and texture.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for plant-based meat substitutes or cooked lentils to maintain texture and protein. Just season the mixture well to keep the rich, savory flavor that defines this dish.
What type of pasta shells work best?
Medium-sized pasta shells are ideal because they capture the cheese sauce inside their shape, maximizing flavor in every bite. Smaller shells might not hold enough sauce, and larger ones could overwhelm the layers.
Can I prepare this recipe using ground turkey or chicken?
Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as leaner alternatives to beef. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning and cooking time slightly, since these meats are milder and can dry out faster.
How can I prevent the cheese sauce from separating?
Be sure to whisk constantly when heating the milk and cheese, and avoid bringing the sauce to a rapid boil. Using shredded cheese rather than sliced helps it melt more evenly, and incorporating a small amount of dry mustard can also help stabilize the sauce.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole Recipe that brings comfort, flavor, and smiles to any table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this casserole combines the beloved elements of meatloaf and cheesy pasta in one irresistible dish. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to for delicious, homey meals!
Print
Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish combining a flavorful meatloaf base topped with creamy cheddar cheese-coated pasta shells. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a perfect family-friendly meal that brings together the best of savory meat and cheesy pasta in one satisfying casserole.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Layer
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cheddar Shells
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, 1/4 cup milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Meatloaf Base: Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a solid meatloaf layer. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes to begin cooking the meat.
- Cook Pasta Shells: While the meatloaf bakes, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir shredded cheddar cheese into the thickened sauce until melted and smooth. Add dry mustard and paprika if using, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Mix the cooked pasta shells into the cheese sauce until they are evenly coated with the creamy cheddar sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Remove the partially baked meatloaf from the oven and spread the cheesy pasta shells evenly over the top of the meat layer.
- Bake to Finish: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Do not overcook pasta as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference, adding more or less garlic and onion powder.
- Dry mustard and paprika add a subtle depth of flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- Allowing the casserole to rest helps it set, making serving easier.
