Why You’ll Love Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole Recipe

The layered textures: a firm meatloaf bottom with tender pasta and melty cheddar on top.
Familiar and flavorful: meatloaf and macaroni‑style shells all in one dish.
Budget‑friendly and straightforward: uses everyday ingredients and comes together in about an hour.
Crowd‑pleaser: perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or when you want something comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 oz medium pasta shells, cooked and drained

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease a 9×13‑inch baking dish and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly distributed.
Press the meatloaf mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, forming a solid layer.
In another bowl, mix the cooked pasta shells with the shredded cheddar cheese, condensed tomato soup and milk. Stir until creamy and well combined.
Spoon the cheddar‑shells mixture evenly over the meatloaf layer, gently spreading to cover.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake an additional 10‑15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is fully melted on top.
Let the casserole rest about 10 minutes for easier serving. Then scoop onto plates and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Use different cheese types: try Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a kick, or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Mix in cooked diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, spinach or mushrooms) into the meat layer for added nutrition.
Use a different pasta shape: if you don’t have shells, try elbow macaroni, rotini or penne.
For a tomato‑sauce alternative: if you don’t have condensed tomato soup, combine tomato sauce and a splash of cream or milk for a similar result.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat individual portions: microwave for 1‑2 minutes or until hot throughout.
To reheat the whole casserole: cover with foil and bake in a 350 °F oven for 15‑20 minutes.
This casserole freezes well: wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, store up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While medium shells are classic, you can use elbow macaroni, rotini or penne instead.

2. Is this recipe gluten‑free?

You can make it gluten‑free by using gluten‑free breadcrumbs and gluten‑free pasta.

3. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely. You can assemble it up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

4. What can I use if I don’t have condensed tomato soup?

A mix of tomato sauce plus a splash of cream or milk will give you a similar creamy, tangy result.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or use pepper jack cheese for some extra heat.

6. Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?

Yes — ground turkey or chicken work well for a leaner option.

7. How can I make the cheese topping crispier?

After baking, you can broil for 2‑3 minutes (watch closely!) so the cheese on top gets golden and slightly crisp.

8. Can I add more vegetables to make it healthier?

Definitely. You can stir in cooked diced vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach or mushrooms into the meat layer or the pasta mixture.

9. Can I scale this up for a crowd?

Yes — you can double the recipe ingredients and use a larger baking dish, adjusting baking time as needed.

10. What should I serve with this casserole?

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, garlic bread or dinner rolls, and steamed or roasted vegetables (e.g., broccoli or carrots) make great accompaniments.

Conclusion

This Meatloaf and Cheddar Shells Casserole is the definition of cozy, comforting dinner. With its hearty meat‑layer, creamy pasta and melted cheddar cheese, it delivers big on flavor and warmth with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping ahead for a busy weeknight, this recipe is reliable and satisfying. Give it a try—you’re likely to hear “seconds, please!” at the table.