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meatloaf and cheddar shells casserole 2.png

Cheesy Meatloaf and Pasta Casserole Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers


  • Total Time: 55-65 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

🧀 Enjoy a comforting blend of savory meatloaf and cheesy pasta in one satisfying casserole.
🍲 Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe offers a hearty, family-friendly meal that everyone will love.


Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 box (12 ounces) medium pasta shells
1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed tomato soup
1/2 cup milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Optional: 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional: smoked paprika to taste
Optional vegetables: bell peppers, carrots, peas


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional Worcestershire sauce until well mixed.
3. Press the meat mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Partially bake the meatloaf base for about 20 minutes to set.
5. Meanwhile, cook pasta shells in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
6. In a separate bowl, mix condensed tomato soup with milk and optional smoked paprika.
7. Remove meatloaf base from oven. Layer cooked pasta shells evenly over the meat.
8. Pour the tomato-milk sauce over the pasta layer.
9. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese over the top.
10. Bake uncovered for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
11. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to set and cool slightly.

Notes

🧂 Use lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
🥣 Prepare the casserole a day ahead to allow flavors to meld, then bake just before serving.
🌶 Add diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese for a spicier variation.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Resting time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 850 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg