Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole

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Comfort Food Classic | Easy Weeknight Dinner | Family Favorite

If you’re craving something cozy, cheesy, and satisfying, this Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole is the perfect dish. It’s a hearty combination of tender ground beef meatloaf and creamy cheddar pasta shells, all baked to golden perfection. This one-dish wonder is ideal for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Meatloaf Mixture:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheddar Shells:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup

  • 1 cup milk

  • 2 cups cooked pasta shells

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or any casserole dish you have available.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but don’t overwork it. Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Par-Bake the Meat

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes to give the meat a head start. Remove and set aside while you prepare the cheesy shells.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheddar Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato soup and milk until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Fold in the cooked pasta shells to the cheddar-tomato mixture until evenly coated.

Step 6: Layer the Casserole

Pour the cheesy pasta mixture over the partially cooked meatloaf layer. Spread it out evenly to cover the meat completely.

Step 7: Bake Again

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the meat is fully cooked (internal temp 160°F / 71°C).

Step 8: Let It Rest & Serve

Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions

  • Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp garden salad

  • Add extra cheddar on top before the final bake for an extra cheesy layer

Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

  • Reheat in the oven or microwave

  • This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months

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